Taller people at higher risk of catching coronavirus, research shows
The survey, outlined in greater detail by the University of Manchester, showed that taller individuals were at higher risk, meaning it was "very likely" that coronavirus remains in the air to form aerosols.
New research has shown that people over 6ft may be twice as likely to test positive for COVID-19 – suggesting that the virus can spread via aerosol transmission and not just droplets.
The survey, outlined in greater detail on the University of Manchester website website, revealed that taller individuals were at higher risk of catching coronavirus – meaning it was “very likely” that coronavirus remains in the air to form aerosols.
According to the data scientists from the UK, US and Norway, these results are “something that would not have been observed if downward droplet transmission was the only transmission mechanism.”
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Aerosols gather in poorly ventilated areas and are carried by air currents, whereas droplets (which are larger) travel short distances and fall quickly from the air.
Professor Evan Kontopantelis, from The University of Manchester, said: “The results of this survey in terms of associations between height and diagnosis suggest downward droplet transmission is not the only transmission mechanism and aerosol transmission is possible.
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“This has been suggested by other studies but our method of confirmation is novel.”
The survey also suggested the use of masks may play an even more important role in prevention of transmission than some previously thought.
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Professor Kontopantelis added: “Though social distancing is still important because transmission by droplets is still likely to occur, it does suggest that mask wearing may be just as if not more effective in prevention.
“But also, air purification in interior spaces should be further explored.”
The paper is yet to be peer reviewed. But researchers believe its full results should be made available to the wider community.
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Pockets of coronavirus outbreaks continue to occur across the UK.
Oldham recently had new measures introduced to combat the prospect of a local lockdown, whilst a bar in Stockport was forced to shut down earlier this week after three members of staff tested positive for the virus.
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Arrest made after 14-year-old boy found in critical condition on Market Street
Daisy Jackson
An arrest has been made after a teenage boy was found unresponsive on Market Street in Manchester city centre.
Detectives believe that the boy, 14, was approached by seven males who stole a designer jacket from him.
Following the altercation, he went into cardiac arrest and was rushed to hospital in a critical condition.
Thankfully, the teenager is continuing to recover well.
Detectives from Manchester City Centre Criminal Investigation Department confirmed that an 18-year-old male was arrested yesterday, Thursday 20 February.
He has been arrested on suspicion of robbery and remains in police custody.
Detective Inspector Mark Astbury of GMP’s City Centre Criminal Investigation Department, said: “We hope the victim can continue his recovery following what must have been a terrifying ordeal for him.
“Officers are fully investigating all aspects of this shocking incident that has left a man with serious injuries in hospital.
“Our work doesn’t stop here, we are continuing to investigate this incident and information from the public plays an incredibly important role in our investigations and I ask that the community keep talking to us and keep sharing their concerns with us so our teams can act.”
If you have any information, contact GMP 101 or 0161 856 4305 quoting log 2854 of 16/2/25.
Comedy is being prescribed instead of antidepressants as part of UK trials
Emily Sergeant
Trials are currently underway to see if comedy could be an alternative to antidepressants as a way to reduce NHS costs.
UK tech company Craic Health has secured important funding for its ‘comedy on prescription’ project that’s aimed at helping the Government work with the comedy industry, communities, and organisations on comedy-based social prescriptions in the hope that they can solve financial struggles within the NHS.
The groundbreaking scheme uses stand-up shows and workshops to help people who are isolated, lonely, and vulnerable.
Craic believes comedy is an ‘untapped opportunity’ to improve health and wellbeing, and has a goal to make comedy easier to access, so that it can help communities experience its mental health and social benefits.
To achieve this, the company has started trialling Comedy-on-Prescription experiences in the UK – starting in London, with the potential for expansion – which includes things like curated comedy panel game show events and workshops, and general stand-up comedy shows at some of the capital’s world-famous venues.
Comedy is being prescribed instead of antidepressants as part of UK trials / Credit: Wikimedia Commons
“Mental health issues like loneliness, isolation, and stress are more common than ever,” the company explains.
“So much so that it’s projected that by 2030, mental health problems, particularly depression, will be the leading cause of mortality and morbidity globally, [but] in this challenging world, comedy stands out as a universal language that breaks barriers.
“Research shows that comedy and laughter have powerful effects – they bring people together, create positive connections, and make life more enjoyable.”
Craic Health says that social prescribing, of which Comedy-on-Prescription is a part of, is all about inclusivity, which makes it making it suitable for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities.
Its focus is on personalised support, tailored to individual needs and preferences.
The Manc -
29th July 2020 
