## Is Scuba Diving Safe During Coronavirus?
### What is the risk?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there is no evidence that the coronavirus can be transmitted through water. However, the virus can be transmitted through close contact with infected people, so it is important to take precautions to avoid getting too close to others while diving.
### What precautions can I take?
Here are some precautions you can take to reduce your risk of getting sick while scuba diving:
Before you dive:
Stay home if you are sick. If you have any symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath, do not go diving.
Get vaccinated. The COVID-19 vaccine is effective at preventing severe illness and death from the virus. If you are not vaccinated, get vaccinated before you go diving.
Wear a mask. Wearing a mask can help protect you from inhaling respiratory droplets that may contain the virus.
Wash your hands frequently. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after diving.
Avoid touching your face. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with your hands.
While you are diving:
Stay at least 6 feet away from other people. This is the recommended social distancing guideline to help prevent the spread of the virus.
Do not share equipment. Do not share dive masks, snorkels, or regulators with other people.
Rinse your equipment thoroughly after each dive. Rinse your dive equipment with clean water to remove any potential contaminants.
After you dive:
Change your clothes and shower. Change into clean clothes and take a shower to remove any potential contaminants from your body.
Wash your hands frequently. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds after diving.
Monitor yourself for symptoms. If you develop any symptoms of COVID-19 after diving, such as fever, cough, or shortness of breath, seek medical attention immediately.
### Is it safe to dive with a mask on?
Yes, it is safe to dive with a mask on. Masks can help protect you from inhaling respiratory droplets that may contain the virus. However, it is important to make sure that your mask fits properly and that you are able to breathe easily through it.
### What if I get sick while diving?
If you get sick while diving, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of COVID-19 can include fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion, runny nose, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
### Conclusion
Scuba diving can be a safe and enjoyable activity during the coronavirus pandemic, provided that you take precautions to avoid getting sick. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can help reduce your risk of getting sick and protect yourself and others from the virus.