The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has issued a new advisory stating that Sars-CoV-2 can be airborne through aerosols or small respiratory droplets that can stay in air for several hours.
In an airborne transmission, an infected person can infect others even with a distance of more than 6 feet.
The CDC has also reported that airborne transmission can occur in enclosed spaces even shortly after the infectious person has left the space, prolonged exposure to respiratory particles released by expiratory exertion such as shouting, singing, or exercising, and inadequate ventilation that allows build-up of suspended respiratory droplets.
The CDC has also advised the public that aside from the minimum health protocols, the most effective methods to prevent the spread of the Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19), especially that airborne transmission is now possible, are to ensure that there is good ventilation in the area, and to avoid crowded places particularly an enclosed indoor space.
Meanwhile, the Department of Health (DOH) has stated that Sars-CoV-2 is already being treated as airborne in hospitals and that more studies must be released to conclude that airborne transmission is possible in non-healthcare settings.
The department has reiterated the importance of observing the minimum health standards. – Report from Mark Fetalco
