According to a new study, COVID-19 transmission may show a seasonal surge owing to temperature and humidity, with spikes at different times of the year in different regions.

Colder areas in the U.S., such as the Northeast, may witness more cases in the winter, while warmer areas, like the South, may have more infections in the summer. Temperate zones; however, could have two peaks. Investigators looked at COVID-19 cases in 19 hot spots worldwide and noted an increase in cases above and below certain temperature and humidity thresholds. 

The number of infections was found to increase as the air temperature came down below 62 degrees Fahrenheit or increased over 75 degrees, possibly on account of human behavior and changes in the environment. The virus was found to last longer in drier places.

The report is published in the American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene… (Medscape)