Fighting the pandemic: Back to basics
Nearly a year and a half since Sars-CoV-2 was first discovered, scientists have learnt a lot about how Sars-CoV-2 spreads, and how it doesn’t. A look at how masks, distance, and ventilation play a key role, according to the Centre’s newest guidelines
THE BASICS: HOW SARS-COV-2 SPREADS 1 AS AEROSOL
Can be carried in the air to up to 10m. The risk is significantly high if someone is without a mask
2 AS DROPLETS
Someone speaking or coughing can spew larger droplets that fall within 2m
3 VIA SURFACES
Though rare and not established beyond doubt, it can potentially spread from surfaces contaminated with viral droplets
WHAT CAN HELP 1. VENTILATE ALL SHARED SPACES
l Keep door and windows open as much as possible for open flow of air
l Let outdoor air flow in to
displace indoor air
l Use an exhaust system or a fan placed near a window to increase air exchange
l Keep exhaust fans running
if windows, doors are shut
l Windows and doors must be kept ajar if the workplace has multiple air conditioning units l This also applies for offices with centralised AC, which should add HEPA filters l In both kinds of spaces, unidirectional fans can expel air, helping draw in outside air from doors
WHAT MAKES IT HARDER TO STOP
Asymptomatic/pre-symptomatic threat: People can be contagious without showing any symptoms
Unventilated spaces: In closed areas, such as homes and offices with no cross-ventilation, virus particles can keep accumulating in the air
2. RIGOROUS MASK DISCIPLINE
At the very least, people should wear a double-layer mask, if not wear two masks
l N-95 masks (without a respirator) offer maximum protection
l People should ensure masks fit snugly and cloth masks are washed every day
l They should wear a mask when outside or at home with outsiders
WIDESPREAD TESTING AND ISOLATION
l Rapid antigen tests can help improve
surveillance in rural and semi-urban areas l Asha, anganwadi and health care workers
can be trained to carry out these tests l These workers should be given oximeters
to better monitor mild/asymptomatic cases