‘Airborne precautions’ eyed for healthcare staffs after study shows coronavirus can survive in air

Scientists are looking at how humidity, temperature and ultraviolet lighting affects the disease


The World Health Organization is considering “airborne precautions” for medical staff after a new study showed the coronavirus can survive in the air in some settings, according to an article on the CNBC website.

World health officials say the respiratory disease spreads through droplets carried through sneezing and coughing as well as germs left on inanimate objects. The coronavirus can go airborne, staying suspended in the air depending on factors such as heat and humidity.

Scientists are  looking at how humidity, temperature and ultraviolet lighting affects the disease as well as how long it lives on different surfaces, including steel.

Health officials use the information to make sure WHO’s guidance is appropriate. The  director of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), told Congress last month that the agency was evaluating how long COVID-19 can survive, particularly on surfaces. On copper and steel, it is typically two hours.

Read the article.

 



March 24, 2020


Topic Area: Infection Control


Recent Posts

Two Steps to Controlling the Hot Zone

Strategy for disrupting dry-surface biofilm begins with a simple premise: You cannot disinfect what you cannot reach.


RiverSpring Living Breaks Ground on River's Edge Senior Living Community

Occupancy is expected in December 2028.


Encompass Health Reveals Plans to Build Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospital in Post Falls, Idaho

The hospital is expected to open in 2028 and will be part of Encompass Health's national network of inpatient rehabilitation hospitals.


Creating Compassionate Spaces in Healthcare

A new bereavement room at the Children’s Hospital of Michigan NICU aims to provide peace and privacy for families.


Study Shows Connection Between Odor and Patient Experience

A 2024 study identifies the top smells in hospital waiting rooms and how they impact the patient and visitor experience.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.