Sashreek Ganguly, Amity University Kolkata
There is enormous evidence that inhalation of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) acts as a major transmission route for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). It is quintessential to discuss the various routes of viral transmission and ensure efficiency and consistency in guidelines provided to the public. To do this, a clear distinction has to be created between aerosols and droplets using a size threshold of 100 μm. Viruses that are present in droplets (larger than 100 μm) generally fall to the ground in seconds within two meters of the source. They are sprayed onto nearby individuals. Due to this limited range, physical distancing reduces exposure. Viruses in aerosols (<100 μm) remain suspended in the air for seconds to hours and are inhaled. They are in high concentrations near an infected person, thus increasing susceptibility of infection nearby individuals. Many COVID-19 infected individuals who show no symptoms, release thousands of virus-laden aerosols when breathing and talking.
Therefore, one is far more susceptible to inhale aerosols than being sprayed by a droplet. Thus, the attention must be shifted to protecting against airborne transmission. In addition to existing mandates, public health officials need to add clear guidance about the importance of moving activities outdoors, improving indoor air, and protection for high-risk workers.
Also read: World Sight Day 2020: I for an Eye
Source- Airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2, Kimberly A. Prather1, Linsey C. Marr2, Robert T. Schooley3, Melissa A. McDiarmid4, Mary E. Wilson5,6, Donald K. Milton7Science 05 Oct 2020:eabf0521 DOI: https://doi.org/10.1126/science.abf0521
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