The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have been hesitant to use terms like “airborne,” “airborne transmission,” and “aerosol transmission” when discussing the spread of COVID-19. However, an international group of experts is now proposing new agreed-upon terminology for pathogens that transmit through the air.
This group, which includes representatives from the WHO, consulting experts, and major health groups, has put forth terms like “infectious respiratory particles” and descriptors for transmission through the air. The goal is to provide more clarity and consistency when discussing diseases like SARS-CoV-2, influenza, measles, MERS-CoV, SARS, and tuberculosis.
While the report acknowledges some concerns about the practical implications of these new terms, it stops short of recommending full airborne precautions. Some experts have welcomed the clarification provided by the proposed terminology, while others believe more progress is needed.
Dr. Joe Vipond, a prominent voice in the discussion, has highlighted the report’s acknowledgment of short-range airborne transmission and stressed the importance of using respirators in healthcare settings. However, he has also raised concerns about the lack of consensus on the precautionary principle and the need to include engineers and occupational hygienists in these discussions.
Moving forward, the group proposes more technical and multidisciplinary research to better understand and address the transmission of pathogens through the air. By working together, experts hope to develop a more unified approach to preventing the spread of airborne diseases and protecting public health.
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