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Scientists carried out measurements in the laboratory
Singing doesn’t produce many more respiratory particles than speaking at a similar volume, one study suggests.
But it all depends on a person’s strength, according to early results which have yet to be peer reviewed.
The project, called Perform, looked at the amount of aerosols and droplets generated by artists.
The results could have implications for live indoor performances, which resumed in England this week.
They are currently only allowed under strict social distancing guidelines.
Aerosols are tiny particles that are exhaled from the body and float in the air.
There is new evidence that the coronavirus can spread through these particles, as well as in droplets that fall to surfaces and are then affected.
Twenty-five professional artists of different genres, ethnicities, ages and backgrounds – musical theater, opera, gospel, jazz and pop – participated in the study conducted by scientists at the University of Bristol.
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They individually completed a range of exercises, which included Happy Birthday singing and speaking at different heights and volumes, in an operating room where there were no other aerosols present.
This allowed researchers to analyze the aerosols produced by specific sounds.
They found that the volume of the voice had the greatest impact on the amount of aerosol produced.
For example, there was some difference – albeit not very substantial – between speaking and singing at a similar level. While singing or shouting at the loudest level could generate 30 times the aerosol.
The impact of the instrument set was also tested
Ventilation could also have an effect on the accumulation of aerosols. The larger the room and the greater the ventilation, this could affect the concentration of volumes.
Jonathan Reid, professor of physical chemistry at the University of Bristol, is one of the authors of the article, which was supported by Public Health England.
He said: “Our research provided a rigorous scientific basis for the Covid-19 recommendations for arts venues to function safely, both for artists and the public, ensuring that spaces are properly ventilated. to reduce the risk of airborne transmission. “
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: “I know that singing is an important passion and hobby for many people who I am sure will join me in welcoming the conclusions of this important study.
“We have worked closely with medical experts throughout this crisis to develop our understanding of Covid-19, and we have now updated our advice in light of these findings so people can start playing together again. safely.”
Dr Rupert Beale of the Francis Crick Institute said: “This important research suggests that there is no specific excessive risk of transmission due to singing. Loud lyrics and singing carry an excess of risk, however. supports the possibility of safe performance as long as there is appropriate social distancing and ventilation. “
Dr Julian Tang, Honorary Associate Professor of Respiratory Sciences at the University of Leicester, said: “The risk is magnified when a group of singers sing together, for example singing in front of an audience, whether in churches, concert halls or theaters. nice study but not exactly representative of the actual dynamics of the choir as a whole, which really requires further study to really assess the risk of vocalizations / exhalations of synchronized singing at such high volume.
“The risks shouldn’t be too underestimated or understated because of this – we don’t want choir members infected and potentially dying from Covid-19 doing what they love.”
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