The spread of aerial viruses is “significantly underestimated”

According to a new Science review, what we’ve learned so far about how Covid-19 spreads needs to be reassessed how all respiratory infections pass between us. It shows that.

Until the pandemic, small droplets of sneezing and coughing, or picked up when touching a surface contaminated with droplets, were understood to be the main way for the respiratory virus to spread. Researchers write that droplets and surfaces alone cannot explain how new coronaviruses spread, and that aerial transmission defined by aerosol spread requires broader research on other viruses. increase.

SMC asked experts to comment on the survey.

Leah Grout, a researcher at the University of Otago’s School of Public Health, commented:

“This study highlights the role of airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2 and the need to reassess aerosol transmission of other respiratory viruses. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the World Health Organization, USA Disease control centers and others took time to allow aerial transmission of the virus, perhaps to prevent public panic. In this study, ventilation and filtration of the indoor environment, use of masks, physical distance, etc. We recommend that you use protective measures to reduce airborne propagation.

“So far, ventilation issues have not been adequately addressed in the New Zealand environment, which is an important consideration for controlling the pandemic of COVID-19 and preventing future respiratory illnesses. Some of the ways to improve ventilation, such as opening windows, are very simple and may have benefits beyond preventing the transmission of the disease. Studies show that improving the air quality in the room , Increases worker productivity and may improve learning at school. “

There is no conflict of interest

Dr. Joel Lindelaub, an aerosol chemist at the University of Auckland, commented:

“This paper highlights how the knowledge gap in aerosol behavior affected early statements from health authorities regarding the SARS-COV-2 pandemic, including the virus not floating in the air.

“Aerosol scientists have long urged increased awareness of the potential aerosol transmission of COVID-19. Experts have publicly questioned WHO’s attitude towards airborne transmission, at least since April 2020. After the publication of a letter signed by 239 aerosol scientists in July 2020, WHO finally realized that “short-range aerosol transmission … could not be ruled out.” Eleven months after aerosol scientists made the exact same conclusions, it was in May 2021 that the CDC stated that aerosols were the primary transmission route.

“Limited expertise in the production and transport of respiratory aerosols can affect infections beyond COVID-19, including influenza virus, rhinovirus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), etc. We are seeking a review of our respiratory virus health recommendations.

“Thanks to the urgency caused by COVID-19, scientists have learned valuable information about the transmission of respiratory viruses. A thorough investigation of the virus transmission here in New Zealand, including events at airplanes and MIQ facilities. Has considerable achievements.

“Current recommendations for distances of 1 or 2 meters are not sufficient to guarantee protection against COVID-19 infections, as the farthest moving aerosol particles have been found to be virus-rich. This is especially relevant for indoor areas where ventilation and air flow are reduced compared to outdoor settings. The distance traveled by breathing aerosols is size, initial velocity released, ambient air velocity, etc. It depends on several factors, including environmental factors. Therefore, recommending universal distance protocols may not be easy, but for ventilation, airflow, air filtration, UV disinfection, and mask fitting. A focused physical distance of at least 2 meters can be used to prevent COVID-19 infection. “

There is no conflict of interest

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