Can Coronavirus spread through air? Over 200 scientists says yes, write to WHO

New Delhi: Coronavirus is an airborne disease several scientists have claimed and requested the World Health Organisation to revise its guidelines based on the theory. Hundreds of scientists say there is evidence that novel coronavirus in smaller particles in the air can infect people, the New York Times reported on Saturday.

239 scientists from 32 nation put forth ‘air transfer’ evidence

The WHO has been saying that the coronavirus or Covid-19 is spread primarily by large respiratory droplets that when expelled by infected people through coughs and sneezes, fall on surface. Thus, the WHO has been recommending handwashing as a primary prevention strategy as our hands may come in contact with such surfaces.

In an open letter to the agency, which the researchers plan to publish in a scientific journal next week, 239 scientists in 32 countries outlined the evidence showing smaller particles can infect people, the NYT said.

According to a New York Times report, a number of scientists have said that there is evidence that people could be infected with the noval coronavirus through smaller particles in the air, calling the world health body to review its advisories regarding the infectious disease.

Will WHO agree approve ‘Coronavirus airborne’ theory ?

The NYT also quoted Dr. Benedetta Allegranzi, the WHO’s technical lead of infection prevention and control, saying the evidence for the virus spreading through air was unconvincing.

“Especially in the last couple of months, we have been stating several times that we consider airborne transmission as possible but certainly not supported by solid or even clear evidence,” Dr. Benedetta Allegranzi, the WHO’s technical lead of infection prevention and control, was quoted as saying by the NYT.