When it emerged in 2019, the Corona virus infection that causes COVID-19 was said to be unable to occur through the air. However, later research showed that the transmission or transmission of COVID-19 via the air or airborne could occur.
COVID-19 is not only transmitted through direct contact or close contact with COVID-19 sufferers, but can also occur through the air. This transmission is known to be more at risk of occurring in closed spaces that are crowded and the air circulation is not good, such as restaurants, offices, gyms or gyms. gym, and mall.
Process Transmission of COVID-19 via Air
When a person with COVID-19 coughs or sneezes, he or she can release mucus or saliva (droplets) containing the Corona virus through their nose or mouth.
Droplets containing the Corona virus can survive in the air for up to about 3 hours, especially in closed rooms with poor air circulation and in places where people gather or do not apply. physical distancing.
If other people inhale the droplets, the Corona virus can enter their bodies and infect them. This is what is known as airborne transmission of COVID-19.
Several studies have shown that airborne transmission of COVID-19 can even occur within 2 meters of a person infected with the Corona virus.
Apart from coughing or sneezing, a number of studies have also shown that droplets carrying the Corona virus can be released by COVID-19 sufferers when talking. This is one of the reasons why the Corona virus is at risk of transmitting to people who have close contact with COVID-19 sufferers.
However, until now further research is still needed to determine how big the risk of transmission of COVID-19 through the air or through the air is airborne compared to other transmission methods, such as physical contact with COVID-19 patients and the entry of the Corona virus through the nose, mouth, or eyes through dirty hands.
How to Reduce the Risk of Airborne COVID-19 Transmission
In order to reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19 via air or other methods, it is recommended that you implement the following health protocols:
- Use a double mask when doing activities outside the home, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated places.
- Wash hands regularly with soap and water or hand sanitizer, especially after sneezing and coughing or touching certain objects.
- Maintain a physical distance from other people, at least 1-2 meters.
- Avoid crowds or crowded places and try not to go out of the house much, except for important business.
- Make sure the air exchange (ventilation) of the room is running well.
- Clean the room or the environment around the house regularly. If necessary, you can use water purifier to filter the air from dust, germs, and viruses.
In conclusion, the risk of transmitting COVID-19 through the air can indeed occur, especially in closed rooms or in open spaces filled with people. However, you can minimize this risk by always implementing the COVID-19 prevention protocol above.
If you still have questions or want to find more complete information regarding the transmission of COVID-19 via air and preventive measures, you can ask your doctor directly through the ALODOKTER application.
In the ALODOKTER app, you can chat with a doctor and make an appointment with a doctor at the hospital if it requires an in-person examination.
