[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] The World Health Organization (WHO) has partially acknowledged the possibility of airborne transmission as a guideline to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), AP News and others reported on the 9th (local time).
According to the report, WHO stated in the guideline materials released that day that there have been some outbreak reports related to crowded indoor spaces such as choir practice, restaurants, and gyms. Benedetta Allegranzi, WHO Infection Control Director, said, "In public places, especially crowded, enclosed, and poorly ventilated environments, the possibility of airborne transmission cannot be ruled out."
However, WHO maintained the position that more research is needed on COVID-19 infection, emphasizing that direct and indirect contact with virus-contaminated surfaces and droplets from coughing or sneezing are the main routes of infection.
Earlier, at a regular video briefing held on the 7th, WHO also stated that additional evidence on airborne transmission of COVID-19 needs to be secured, while partially acknowledging the possibility. AP noted that "WHO has long ignored the possibility of airborne spread of COVID-19," highlighting the change in stance.
WHO's current guideline came after more than 200 scientists pointed out the need to be cautious about the possibility of airborne transmission of COVID-19. Previously, two scientists from the United States and Australia published an open letter with this content in a journal, and subsequently, more than 200 scientists demanded stricter protective measures from domestic and international health authorities, including WHO.
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