Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment for Airborne Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 via Breathing, Speaking, Singing, Coughing, and Sneezing.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Evidence for indoor airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is accumulating.

Objectives

We assessed of the risk of illness due to airborne SARS-CoV-2 particles from breathing, speaking, singing, coughing, and sneezing in indoor environments.

Methods

A risk assessment model, AirCoV2, for exposure to SARS-CoV-2 particles in aerosol droplets was developed. Previously published data on droplets expelled by breathing, speaking, singing, coughing, and sneezing by an infected person were used as inputs. Scenarios encompassed virus concentration, exposure time, and ventilation. Newly collected data of virus RNA copies in mucus from patients are presented.

Results

The expelled volume of aerosols was highest for a sneeze, followed by a cough, singing, speak

SUBMITTER: Schijven J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8016178 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature