This archive report was first published on 8 July 2020.
On July 8, 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) was still gathering evidence on the airborne transmission of coronavirus, a topic of debate among scientists.
Prof David Heymann, a WHO advisor on infectious hazards, emphasized the need for well-designed studies to inform new strategies for containing the virus.
Investigating Airborne Transmission ¶
The WHO has convened a group of sanitary engineers to investigate the mechanisms that propel virus-carrying aerosols into the air.
Heymann noted that the key control measures in place for coronavirus, such as physical distancing and mask-wearing, are based on the assumption that the infection is largely spread by larger droplets ejected from people's mouths and noses.
However, some scientists believe that airborne transmission may be more significant, particularly in closed spaces with poor ventilation.
Heymann acknowledged that there is a possibility of airborne transmission in such settings, but emphasized that there is as yet no hard proof.
Other evidence suggests that airborne transmission is not a major issue, with some countries experiencing no increase in transmission after easing lockdown restrictions.
