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Taller people at higher risk of contracting coronavirus: Survey

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Taller people may be more likely to be diagnosed with the coronavirus, according to a new survey.

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The survey involving 2,000 U.K. and U.S. residents looked at whether personal attributes, work and living practices might play a role in the virus’ transmission.

It found that people over six feet tall were more than twice as likely to be diagnosed with the coronavirus.

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Researchers believe that this suggests that the virus is transmitted via “aerosol transmission,” rather than droplets alone.

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“The results of this survey in terms of associations between height and diagnosis suggest downward droplet transmission is not the only transmission mechanism and aerosol transmission is possible,” professor Evan Kontopantelis, of the University of Manchester, told the Manchester Evening News.

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Aerosols are smaller than droplets and can accumulate in poorly ventilated areas and are carried by air currents. They could travel farther than droplets which are typically transmitted through coughing, sneezing or talking.

“Though social distancing is still important because transmission by droplets is still likely to occur, it does suggest that mask wearing may be just as if not more effective in prevention,” Kontopantelis said.

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For more health news and content around diseases, conditions, wellness, healthy living, drugs, treatments and more, head to Healthing.ca – a member of the Postmedia Network.

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