Choirs have been allowed to rehearse and perform since Wednesday, but rather in a zigzag formation than one after the other, according to a RIVM advice for the choir sector released on Tuesday evening. But why exactly?
“That is simply due to the 1.5 meter distance,” explains a spokesman for RIVM.
People are mainly infected with coronavirus by ‘large’ cough, sneeze and speech drops. The large drops rarely go beyond 1.5 meters.
However, RIVM also takes into account the distribution via small drops, so-called aerosols. “That is why we have to think of ways that even choirs can keep enough distance from each other.”
Aerosols, emitted by people with the coronavirus, may contribute to the spread of the coronavirus. However, it is still unclear how many contaminated aerosols you have to breathe in order to get sick.
Being in zigzag formation is not an obligation, the spokesman emphasizes. “It is also possible to devise other formation with which the chance of spreading is reduced.”
Ventilate for 10 minutes after each break
Furthermore, the advice states that choirs – just like gyms – must ensure good ventilation. “Ventilate the room where you are singing together 24 hours a day and make sure that the room is aired for about ten minutes during breaks and after the meeting”, the advice read.
It is also advised to keep attendance lists. This is to facilitate possible source and contact investigations in the event of an outbreak.
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