There has been much controversy about how the coronavirus is transmitted. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention offers these guidelines, and the World Health Organization states the disease can be passed on by infected people through respiratory droplets when a person talks, coughs, or sneezes, as well as transmitted by aerosols.
Three experts shared with CBS News their views on how best to protect ourselves against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
The experts, Kimberly Prather, Ph.D., an atmospheric chemist, Linsey Marr, Ph.D., a specialist in airborne viruses, and Dr. Donald K. Milton, an infectious disease aerobiologist, offer these suggestions:
- While indoors, practice social distancing — the farther the better, said the experts.
- Always wear a face mask when in the company of others to protect yourself and those around you from contracting the virus. According to the CDC the risk of contracting COVID-19 is greater indoors, especially over a prolonged period of time. Experts reiterated that wearing masks still may be the best protection we have.
- Improve ventilation by keeping windows open. In wide open spaces, the virus may be diluted and quickly dispersed, but in enclosed spaces, the concentration can increase the risk of infection, according to FiveThirtyEight.
- Engage in social interactions outdoors whenever possible.
- Even when you are outdoors, wear a face covering if you cannot physically distance yourself at least six feet from others.
Lynn C. Allison ✉
Lynn C. Allison, a Newsmax health reporter, is an award-winning medical journalist and author of more than 30 self-help books.
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