Airborne Or Not?

Angie SzumlinskiStudies

The World Health Organization (WHO) announced they will be publishing their findings regarding the SARS-CoV-2 virus and how the virus may be spread. There is currently substantial controversy about the role played by SARS-CoV-2 however, in one recent study, air samples were collected in the room of two COVID-19 patients, one who had an active respiratory infection and a nasopharyngeal (NP) swab positive for SARS-CoV-2. It was determined that patients with respiratory manifestations of COVID-19 produce aerosols in the absence of aerosol-generating procedures, that contain viable SARS-CoV-2 and these aerosols may serve as a source of transmission of the virus.

At the end of the day, we need these researchers to “do what they do” and we as providers need to pay close attention. These are definitely not normal times and if we don’t stay current with the research being done, we may not be doing what is best for our residents and staff. Please remember to do YOUR research! Spend a few minutes every morning (or evening) looking at what is new and innovative in our battle with the COVID-19 pandemic; you may be surprised how quickly things can change. As Dorothy once said, “we aren’t in Kansas anymore!”

Stay well, stay safe and stay tuned!