This Black Light Experiment Shows How Fast A Virus Could Spread

Image credit: youtube.com and forbes.com

Countries around the world are beginning to ease up on lockdown restrictions as active cases start to drop. Businesses are slowly opening up and people are going back to work. Of course, this must all be done with Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) in place to ensure the safety of everyone. However, it is still not the time for us to be out and about as usual. This black light experiment from Japanese broadcaster NHK shows just how fast a virus can spread.


This Black Light Experiment Shows A Virus Spreading

In this black light experiment, 1 out of 10 of the participants is given a special liquid to rub on his hands. This liquid is only visible under black light and is meant to replicate the saliva or mucus of someone who coughs or sneezes into their hands.

After that, the participants are set loose on a buffet where they help themselves to the delicious food. Once everyone has plated up and are back at the table, the black light is turned on.

This black light experiment shows how fast a virus can spread
Image credit: youtube.com

The surprise on everyone’s faces is indicative of just how far the liquid can travel. In fact, it is on the tongs for picking up food, the drink pitcher, and even food tray lids. As a result of everyone using the same utensils to dish out food, every single participant had the liquid on them. Furthermore, three participants had the liquid on their faces.

What does this mean for us?

While you might be sighing in relief that you aren’t planning on going to a buffet, this black light experiment showcases what can happen anywhere. Everyday people are touching objects you then come into contact with.

Shopping trolley used for groceries
Image credit: flyingdandelion.weebly.com

It could be the trolleys you use at the grocery store or the handrails on the escalators. Moreover, it could be something small like the pen you use to write your details before entering a store now.

The results of this black light experiment shows us that a virus can easily spread. We must all do our part in slowing down the rate of infection here. In fact, the best thing you can do is to stay home as much as possible. Only go out for necessities, don’t have social gatherings, and make sure to keep washing your hands!