Dr. Harvey Fineberg, the chairman of a committee with the US National Academy of Sciences has disclosed that coronavirus can be spread not just by sneezing or coughing like we have been guided, but also just by talking, or possibly even just breathing.
“While the current [coronavirus] specific research is limited, the results of available studies are consistent with aerosolization of virus from normal breathing,” according to the letter, written by Dr. Fineberg.
The former dean of the Harvard School of Public Health infact told the press in America that he will start wearing masks even when he goes to the grocery store.
“This letter responds to your question concerning the possibility that coronavirus could be spread by conversation, in addition to sneeze/cough-induced droplets,” Dr Fineberg says in the letter. “Currently available research supports the possibility that coronavirus could be spread via bioaerosols generated directly by patients’ exhalation,” he further states.
Dr Fineberg goes on to explain that research at a hospital in China shows the virus can be suspended in the air when doctors and nurses remove protective gear, when floors are cleaned, or when staff move around.
Still in the letter (that was sent to the White House), there is affirmation that research by the University of Nebraska proved that genetic material from the virus was found in patients’ rooms more than 6 feet away from the patients.
“It’s possible that aerosolized coronavirus droplets can hang in the air and potentially infect someone who walks by later” Dr Fineberg explained.
He was quick to note, however, that coronavirus is not as infectious as measles or tuberculosis.
“If you generate an aerosol of the virus with no circulation in a room, it’s conceivable that if you walk through later, you could inhale the virus,” Fineberg said. “But if you’re outside, the breeze will likely disperse it.”
