CDC updates guidance on airborne transmission of COVID-19 virus

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention yesterday updated its guidance on how COVID-19 spreads to acknowledge published reports showing “limited, uncommon” circumstances where people with COVID-19 infected others who were more than 6 feet away.

“In these instances, transmission occurred in poorly ventilated and enclosed spaces that often involved activities that caused heavier breathing, like singing or exercise,” the agency said. "Such environments and activities may contribute to the buildup of virus-carrying particles. CDC’s recommendations remain the same based on existing science and after a thorough technical review of the guidance. People can protect themselves from the virus that causes COVID-19 by staying at least 6 feet away from others, wearing a mask that covers their nose and mouth, washing their hands frequently, cleaning touched surfaces often and staying home when sick.”

The guidance notes that, based on available data, it is “much more common” for the virus to spread through close contact with a person who has COVID-19 than through airborne transmission.