COVID-19 Q&A: Outdoor Activities

At the University of Maryland Medical Center, we know many people have questions about the novel coronavirus virus (COVID-19) and how to stay safe while spending time outdoors.

Our experts have some answers for you.

Is it safe to swim in pools?

According to the CDC, there is no evidence that COVID-19 can spread through the water used in pools.

Remember to limit close contact with people outside your home both in and out of the water.

Should you still wear a mask when exercising outdoors in the heat?

If you are exercising in an area where social distancing can't be guaranteed, you should wear a mask.

Otherwise, if social distancing can be practiced, you do not need to wear a mask.

Please note that the presence of a mask during exercise can restrict airflow, and you should, therefore, monitor breathing and heart rate during exercise.

Can COVID spread through food grilled at a BBQ?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), at this time there is no evidence to support the transmission of COVID-19 associated with food.

Can mosquitoes carry or transmit COVID?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) agree that the mosquitoes do not spread COVID-19. They can't become infected by the virus, and so they cannot spread it to humans.