WHO Finally Acknowledged That The Corona Virus Can Spread Through The Air

Illustration (Unsplash / CDC)

JAKARTA - The World Health Organization finally acknowledged that the new corona virus that causes COVID-19 could spread through the air, after being pushed by hundreds of scientists. Previously, the WHO insisted the virus was only transmitted by droplets when people coughed or sneezed.

The claim comes after the WHO received an open letter from 239 scientists who have conducted research on it. But the WHO warns that preliminary evidence is still not strong enough. There needs to be further research.

Quoting the BBC, a WHO official said the evidence was still preliminary and needed further research. WHO technical lead for infection prevention and control, Benedetta Allegranzi said evidence emerging of airborne transmission of the coronavirus in the dense, closed, poorly-ventilated environment that has been described cannot be ruled out.

Previously, Professor of Environmental Health from the University of Maryland Donald Milton revealed that the new corona virus can spread through the air. He also organized hundreds of doctors to put pressure on WHO.

In Milton's study, airborne transmission could occur primarily in a crowded, closed or poorly ventilated area. According to him, viruses can not only be transmitted when droplets are sprayed when people cough and sneeze. But it can be contagious when people talk, laugh or sing. Viruses can float in the air for some time.

"Most public health organizations, including WHO do not recognize airborne transmission except in cases of aerosol generation which are carried out in health care settings. Hand washing and social distancing in our view are not sufficient to provide protection from spreading the virus. Microdroplets are released into the air by people. the infected, "Milton told CNN.

Changes in WHO's attitude

For months, WHO has insisted that COVID-19 is transmitted through droplets that come out when people cough or sneeze. The droplets, WHO said, do not stick in the air but fall to the surface and can die in a matter of a few hours. That's why washing your hands is a major preventive measure.

But now, WHO admits that the virus can spread through the air in certain places. Such as a crowded room that is closed or has poor ventilation.

But the evidence must be thoroughly re-evaluated. If proven, guidelines for preventing the spread of the virus may have to change. Among them could lead to wider use of masks, stricter distance restrictions, especially in crowded places such as bars, restaurants and public transportation.