As businesses are re-opening in much of the world and people are slowly going back to their normal routines regular sauna users who have been abstaining have been wondering if the sauna is a safe space away from Covid.
While some may say the heat will kill the sauna, it takes time for the virus to react to the heat and in such an enclosed space experts believe people are vulnerable to the spread fo covid. According to Canadian infection control epidemiologist Colin Furness in discussion with the CBC, “if it’s a really small space, the droplets could probably go from someone else’s mouth into your mouth “very quickly” before the virus could be deactivated by the heat.”
This means that it likely isn’t safe to enjoy the sauna at your local gym. However you can still get your sauna fix if you sauna with people within your social bubble or sauna alone. “If you’re going for steam or a sauna, Furness recommends going alone, or with people in your bubble.”
Possible Sauna Benifits
There are some reported benefits to sauna use for your lung health as well as fighting off viral infections as Dr. Rhonda Patrick discussed. Namely it boosts your immune system, reduces lung inflammation, increases heat shock proteins, and benefits lung tissue.
Although social distancing may limit your normal sauna routine it may be time to consider buying your own sauna for you and your social group. If you can’t afford your own classic Finnish style saunas there are smaller and more affordable infrared saunas. On the cheaper end there are very affordable individual portable saunas as well.
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