Our world has been upside-down since the coronavirus or COVID virus has caused a pandemic situation across the globe. Due to the constant ongoing mutation of the virus, the vaccines have not even been released. As a result of which, we humans are making every possible effort to keep us and our loved ones safe and far away from getting infected with this deadly virus. The primary understanding of this virus has helped the medical practitioners claim that this virus spreads through contact and respiratory droplets. Though further investigations are being conducted, every now and then to make the actual reason behind its spread evident.
According to the recent speculations, the US Centres for Disease Control says that there are a few chances of the COVID virus getting spread by tiny particles suspended in the air for a few hours or so. Though it is uncommon. But the bigger droplets of saliva getting transferred from an infected person to a non-infected person is seen to be the main source of transmission. Obviously, people who are close or are in contact with a COVID infected person are more susceptible to get infected with this virus, than the others. Homes or other areas which are poorly ventilated and lack some natural air purifiers like a bonsai tree, spider plant, etc, are said to be riskier than the outdoors.
Though, the World Health Organization (WHO) says no such new evidence has been found related to the virus transmission. At the same time, agreeing to the possibility of the aerosol transmission being however possible for this virus. Explaining the difference between the droplet and airborne transmission, researchers say that in droplet transmission coughs and sneezes from a person can spread droplets of saliva and mucus. Whereas in the case of the airborne transmission, the tiny particles mostly produced while talking are suspended in the air for longer and travel even further and that’s how the virus spread. The size of the droplets is more than 5 microns, whereas in case of airborne transmission of tiny particles – the size happens to be somewhat less than 5 microns.
Furthermore explaining this theory, it was said by them in a situation wherein the COVID patients were infected this way were not more than 6ft or 2m away. Or otherwise, they were knowingly or unknowingly talking to an infected person in an air space for about minutes or hours earlier. CDC further clarifies the chances of this kind of transmission can be eliminated if a person follows the COVID protocols i.e washing hands, wearing face coverings and social distancing. Other than taking these precautions, a higher standard of protection, including disposable gowns, filtering respirators and face-shielding visors have even been advised for public usage.
Conclusion: Yes, as there are many instances of the COVID virus getting spread via the air we can’t deny this fact that even by slightest possibility there might be chances that COVID-19 is an airborne disease. Saying that we are still waiting for other recognised medical boards to confirm this.