In a recent development, the World Health Organization (WHO) has updated its guidelines on the transmission of pathogens, particularly focusing on the spread of Covid-19. Initially, public health advice during the pandemic emphasized sanitizing surfaces rather than addressing airborne transmission. The WHO’s delay in recognizing the importance of airborne spread was due to their initial belief that Covid-19 was not an airborne disease.
However, in November 2021, the WHO assembled a group of experts to update their guidelines, acknowledging the significance of airborne transmission. The experts introduced new terms like “through the air transmission” and “direct deposition” to classify different routes of pathogen transmission. This update eliminates the distinction between droplet size and distance traveled, potentially changing infection control standards and prevention measures.
A multidisciplinary group of experts, including engineers and aerosol scientists, was involved in the development of the new guidelines, highlighting the importance of understanding how viruses move in and out of bodies and through the environment. While definitions were agreed upon, there was no consensus on the implications for infection prevention and control policy.
Critics have raised concerns that economic and political forces may overlook scientific evidence on disease transmission, putting public health at risk. WHO chief scientist Jeremy Farrar emphasized the need for more research with a diverse group of experts to improve infection control practices for current and future diseases. This updated guidance underscores the importance of recognizing airborne transmission in disease prevention and control efforts.
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