[Corona Vacation Q&A] Transmission Underwater? Masks at Water Parks?

On the 1st, when the daytime temperature in Seoul rose to 31 degrees Celsius, children visiting the Mulbit Square at Yeouido Hangang Park in Seoul cooled off by playing in the water. Photo by Jin-Hyung Kang aymsdream@

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] As the summer vacation season is in full swing, concerns about the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19) are growing. With increased interregional movement and people gathering closely, it is important to follow quarantine guidelines to prevent the recurrence of cluster infections like the 'Itaewon Club' outbreak that occurred after the golden holiday in May.

◆Can infection occur underwater? = The possibility of transmission through water is considered low. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has stated that there is no evidence yet that coronavirus spreads in seawater, swimming pools, or bathtubs.

◆Water play is classified as 'high risk'? = Water play is classified as a high-risk daily activity because it is difficult to wear masks and sharing of items is frequent. This is because droplets can be generated in multi-use facilities such as changing rooms, restaurants, and lounges. However, water play itself is not impossible. Son Young-rae, head of the Strategic Planning Division at the Central Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters, emphasized, "Wearing a mask when using outdoor public facilities or multi-use facilities is an important part of the quarantine guidelines."

◆Should masks be worn at water parks? = Water play is allowed, but masks must be worn outside the water. It is risky to gather densely and talk while changing clothes in changing rooms. When changing clothes, maintain distance from others and minimize the time spent. Use shower facilities with one stall left empty between users, and instead of using shared items such as shampoo, lotion, and cotton swabs provided at the facility, bring personal items separately.

◆Which is safer, the beach or the valley? = Quiet beaches and valleys are less risky than water parks or indoor swimming pools, even though they involve similar water play. This is because it is more realistically possible to maintain distance from others and the environment allows ventilation, which is a key part of quarantine guidelines. Also, unlike water parks, there are no waiting times for rides, so there is relatively less chance of talking to or physical contact with others. Before visiting a beach, check the beach congestion signal light in advance on the 'Sea Travel Itinerary Planner' operated by the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries and choose a less crowded place.