“Post-COVID Era: WHO Defines Airborne Disease Transmission”
The World Health Organization, in collaboration with approximately 500 experts, has reached a significant milestone by defining the concept of disease transmission through the air. This landmark decision aims to rectify the confusion that arose early in the COVID-19 pandemic, a confusion that some experts argue may have resulted in avoidable loss of life.
Released recently by the Geneva-based UN health agency, a technical document outlines this definition, marking the initial step towards devising strategies to mitigate such transmission. The focus is not only on existing airborne diseases like measles but also on addressing potential future pandemics.
Essentially, the document defines “through the air” transmission as applicable to infectious diseases where the primary mode of transmission involves pathogens traversing or lingering in the air. This terminology aligns with established terms like “waterborne” diseases, facilitating comprehension across various disciplines and among the general public.
This consensus is the culmination of contributions from nearly 500 experts spanning diverse fields such as physics, public health, and engineering. While disagreements have been prevalent in the past, particularly regarding whether infectious particles constitute “droplets” or “aerosols” based on size, the new definition shifts focus away from such distinctions.
In the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, approximately 200 aerosol scientists raised concerns over the WHO’s failure to acknowledge the airborne spread of the virus promptly. They argued that this delayed recognition led to an overemphasis on measures like handwashing, neglecting crucial aspects like ventilation.
Acknowledging these critiques, former WHO chief scientist Soumya Swaminathan admitted that the organization should have been more assertive in addressing airborne transmission sooner. Jeremy Farrar, her successor, emphasized that the new definition extends beyond COVID-19, offering a framework for discussions on ventilation in diverse settings.
Farrar draws parallels to the evolution in medical practices surrounding blood-borne viruses like HIV and hepatitis B, highlighting how consensus on terminology paved the way for necessary changes in healthcare protocols. Similarly, he envisions that agreement on the definition of airborne transmission will catalyze advancements in infection control measures, ultimately safeguarding public health across various sectors.
In essence, this milestone represents a crucial step forward in understanding and combating airborne disease transmission, underscoring the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration and clear communication in public health initiatives.
