History of droplets vs. aerosol transmission

In summary, the article "The 60-Year-Old Scientific Screwup That Helped Covid Kill" discusses the initial recommendations for COVID, which focused on 2 meters distance and hand washing, but failed to address the potential for indoor transmission over larger distances. This oversight was due to an old tuberculosis measurement being taken out of context. The paper "How Did We Get Here: What Are Droplets and Aerosols and How Far Do They Go?" provides a historical perspective on the transmission of respiratory infectious diseases. The author disagrees with the article's claim that the WHO was late to acknowledge airborne transmission, citing evidence from July 2020. They also mention that Singapore issued advice on ventilation in May 2020, based on similar evidence.
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Long article discussing how our understanding of transmission changed during the pandemic
I found this interesting article: The 60-Year-Old Scientific Screwup That Helped Covid Kill

It discusses why the initial COVID recommendations were focused on 2 meters distance, hand washing but not much else, and how indoor transmission over larger distances was overlooked initially (largely increasing the impact of the pandemic) because an old tuberculosis measurement result was taken out of context long ago.

As paper: How Did We Get Here: What Are Droplets and Aerosols and How Far Do They Go? A Historical Perspective on the Transmission of Respiratory Infectious Diseases
 
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I don't agree with the article about the WHO being late to acknowledge airborne transmission. They did acknowledge airborne transmission by around July 2020, although maybe not in a forum that most people read. See the link in https://www.forbes.com/sites/jvchamary/2021/05/04/who-coronavirus-airborne/?sh=576146024472, although I don't agree with their interpretation either. There was certainly enough information by July 2020 for public health authorities etc to issue advice to improve ventilation. Singapore issued advice on ventilation in May 2020, before the WHO advice, but I would guess based on the same evidence https://www1.bca.gov.sg/docs/defaul...guidance-note-on-building-aircon-acmv-ops.pdf.
 

1. What is the difference between droplet and aerosol transmission?

Droplet transmission refers to the spread of infectious droplets through close contact with an infected person, typically within a distance of 6 feet. Aerosol transmission, on the other hand, occurs when smaller particles containing the virus can remain suspended in the air and travel further distances.

2. How do droplets and aerosols affect the spread of diseases?

Droplets and aerosols both play a role in the spread of diseases, but they differ in terms of how far they can travel and how long they can remain in the air. Droplets are larger and heavier, so they tend to fall to the ground quickly, whereas aerosols can remain suspended in the air for longer periods of time and travel further distances.

3. Can both droplets and aerosols transmit the same diseases?

Yes, both droplets and aerosols can transmit the same diseases, but the risk and likelihood of transmission may vary. Some diseases, such as the flu, are primarily spread through droplets, while others, like tuberculosis, can be transmitted through both droplets and aerosols.

4. How can we prevent the spread of diseases through droplets and aerosols?

To prevent the spread of diseases through droplets and aerosols, it is important to practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands frequently and covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing. Additionally, wearing masks and maintaining physical distancing can help reduce the risk of transmission through both droplets and aerosols.

5. Can droplets and aerosols be controlled in indoor environments?

Yes, droplets and aerosols can be controlled in indoor environments through proper ventilation and air filtration systems. Increasing air flow and using high-efficiency filters can help reduce the concentration of infectious particles in the air and lower the risk of transmission through both droplets and aerosols.

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