What is an Aerosol Virus?
An aerosol virus is a type of airborne pathogen, which is responsible for respiratory infections. It is usually spread through the air as tiny droplets from the nose and mouth of an infected person when they sneeze, cough, or even just speak. These aerosol particles can remain in the air for extended periods of time and even travel long distances in the environment. The virus can survive for days or even weeks in an environment and can infect those who come into contact with the droplets.
Types of Aerosol Viruses
Common types of aerosol viruses are the coronaviruses, such as SARS-CoV-2 which causes COVID-19 and influenza A and B viruses. Other aerosol viruses include adenovirus and rhinovirus, which cause various respiratory infections, and the varicella-zoster virus which causes chickenpox and other skin diseases.
How Do Aerosol Viruses Spread?
Aerosol viruses are spread through direct contact with an infected person’s respiratory droplets when that person sneezes, coughs or even just talks. The droplets can travel from person to person and can remain suspended in the air for extended periods of time. An individual can be infected by inhaling the droplets, touching an object or surface that was infected with the aerosol virus and then touching their eyes, nose, or mouth, or by touching the respiratory droplets directly on the skin.
What Can I Do to Avoid Contracting an Aerosol Virus?
There are several steps you can take to protect yourself from contracting an aerosol virus.
1.Keep a physical distance of at least two metres (six feet) from others.
2.Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
3.Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
4.Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily.
5.Wear a face mask or cloth face covering when in public.
6.Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
7.Stay home if you are feeling ill.
Symptoms of Aerosol Viruses
The symptoms of an aerosol virus can vary from one virus to another, but they are generally the same as other types of respiratory infections. Common symptoms include:
•Coughing
•Shortness of breath
•Fatigue
•Fever
•Muscle/body aches
•Loss of appetite
•Nausea and vomiting
•Nasal congestion
•Sore throat
Diagnosis of Aerosol Viruses
The diagnosis of an aerosol virus is typically made through a clinical examination, laboratory testing of specimens from respiratory secretions, and/or imaging studies. Clinical presentation may be used to support the diagnosis and includes assessing the patient’s history and physical examination. Laboratory testing is usually done to confirm the diagnosis and can involve testing of nasal and pharyngeal secretions, as well as sputum. CT scans may also be done to assess for lymph node involvement.
Treatment for Aerosol Viruses
Treatment for an aerosol virus usually involves providing supportive care and addressing any underlying medical conditions. Patients should be encouraged to rest and get plenty of fluids, and in some cases, antibiotics may be prescribed if there are secondary bacterial infections. In severe cases, hospitalization for respiratory support may be needed.
Prevention of Aerosol Viruses
The best way to prevent aerosol viruses is to practice good hygiene and reduce exposure to people who are infected. Strategies to reduce exposure include:
•Regularly washing hands with soap and water or using hand sanitizer
•Staying away from people who are ill, or those that may have been exposed to an aerosol virus
•Covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing
•Avoiding touching the eyes, nose, or mouth
•Using a face mask or cloth face covering in public settings
•Getting vaccinated against common aerosol viruses, such as influenza
Aerosol viruses are a type of airborne pathogen that can cause respiratory infections. They are most commonly spread through direct contact with an infected person’s respiratory droplets. The best way to prevent aerosol viruses is to practice good hygiene, reduce exposure to those who are infected, and get vaccinated against common aerosol viruses, such as influenza. If an aerosol virus is contracted, supportive care and addressing any underlying medical conditions is typically recommended.
