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The virus can spread across the water's surface, and there is a possibility of infection.

Surfing and coronavirus - Surfing Costa Rica.

In recent weeks we have observed some shared opinions regarding whether or not it is right to go surfing.

Surfing and coronavirus - Surfing Costa Rica.

Although the relevant authorities implemented preventative measures to avoid people being on the beaches, some believe that surfing does not harm anyone.

Surfing and coronavirus - Surfing Costa Rica.

However, those of us who practice this surfing discipline know that due to the surface where it is practiced, solutions of bodily fluids such as saliva, sweat and even residues of nasal mucus are part of each session and these are spread in the environment, in addition to the contamination of wastewater, increasing the risk of contracting the pathogen.

Surfing and coronavirus - Surfing Costa Rica.

Now, imagine that a person who unknowingly or irresponsibly knowing that they are a positive case has surfed in a region near where you plan to enjoy the waves, and even though you think you are safe because you avoid crowds, the COVID-19 virus could be transmitted to your body.

Surfing and coronavirus - Surfing Costa Rica.

Many might wonder how this is possible. The answer is quite simple. According to the World Health Organization, it is not known for certain how long the virus that causes COVID-19 survives on a surface, but it appears to behave like other coronaviruses. The virus can survive "from a few hours to several days" on a surface, says the WHO, but "the time can vary depending on the conditions (for example, the type of surface, the temperature, or the humidity of the environment)."

Furthermore, the WHO mentions in one of its articles that it is likely that a coronavirus can live in water, stating the following: “Coronaviruses can remain infectious for long periods in water and in pasteurized settled wastewater, suggesting that contaminated water is a potential vehicle for human exposure.”

Surfing and coronavirus - Surfing Costa Rica.

Experts recommend taking all relevant health precautions, and in the case of surfing, not practicing it to avoid any risk of infection.

Written by: Enrique Hernández

General Management: Marco Montero

Sources: https://www.who.int/es/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public/qa-coronaviruses

https://apps.who.int/iris/rest/bitstreams/1271257/retrieve

https://www.surfrider.org/coastal-blog/entry/covid-19-and-beach-water-quality-updates-from-the-research-community