Hyderabad:The declaration about the airborne and aerosol transmission of coronavirus, has created a panic among people across the world.
Scientists conveyed that the virus can stay 'at least temporarily' in air and does not mean the pathogen is flying all over and will infect everyone.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has stated the people need to be more careful as there was evidence that the coronavirus is airborne.
The virus is slightly larger in size and hence it spreads through the droplets that are larger than 5 microns in size.
It stated that small droplets released when a person speaks or breathes would be in the air for some time.
The saliva smaller than 5 microns can float in the air for longer than the bigger droplets which settle down in a few minutes.
Hence, people need to wear a mask for a longer period to reduce the risk of coming in contact with the potentially infected person.
People should take the same precautions, including maintaining physical distance and avoiding rooms where multiple people are present as the virus is contagious.
There are chances of getting infected through breathing and droplets of corona patients undergoing any non-invasive treatments such as replacing their trachea or inserting external pipes, WHO stated.
The virus droplets floating in the air are expected to travel up to a height of 6-9 feet.
Some cases in China and the United States revealed that people get infected when they are in close contact with corona patients.
Meanwhile, there must be a free flow of air or building must be highly ventilated in the building and offices to avoid getting infected from the virus. The virus cannot survive for a long duration in a highly ventilated area with free flow of fresh air. The exhaust fans can be used for the outflow of the air.
Precautions needed to avoid getting infected from the virus are:
- People should not gather in a group at a place
- Avoid usage of lift and exhaust fan should be used compulsorily
- Passive breathing should be avoided
- Do not wear small masks. Wear masks that completely cover the nose, mouth and lower part of the throat.
- Using surgical masks is mandatory in situations where we need to go to the hospital or are serving any corona patient.
- Cloth masks should be washed daily with clean soap. It can also be soaked in water mixed with bleaching powder before drying it in sunlight.
- Avoid touching mask as hand contains large number germs such as virus and bacteria
Meanwhile, the surgical masks consist of three layers. While the outer layer prevents us from moisture and dust particles, the middle layer purifies the air and prevents the virus. The inner and third layer absorbs sweat and moisture to avoid suffocation.
Around 90% of people often take out their masks from their faces which increases the risk of getting infected.
Also Read:Covid-19: Airborne transmission can't be ruled out, says WHO
