WHO provides clear definitions for airborne pathogens, says ET HealthWorld

In a significant development, the World Health Organization (WHO) has introduced a new, inclusive term for pathogens that spread through the air, aiming to eliminate confusion surrounding the transmission of infectious diseases. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the debate between experts on whether the virus was transmitted through droplets or aerosols posed a critical public health challenge. Initially, it was believed that the virus spread through droplets expelled during coughs and sneezes, leading to emphasis on handwashing as a preventive measure. However, it later became apparent that the virus was more easily transmitted through the air, requiring additional precautions.

After over two years of consultations, the WHO has agreed that all particles transmitted through the air, regardless of size, should be referred to as “infectious respiratory particles” (IRPs). This new terminology will not only apply to the COVID virus but also to other respiratory infections like tuberculosis, influenza, and measles. The WHO hopes that this unified terminology will enhance understanding and facilitate collaboration across scientific disciplines.

WHO’s Chief Scientist, Jeremy Farrar, emphasized the importance of consensus on terminology to drive scientific progress. The new terminology of IRPs seeks to move away from the previous distinction based on particle size and instead consider various factors influencing transmission, such as air humidity, temperature, and airflow. While the WHO maintains a distinction between airborne transmission through inhalation and direct deposition on exposed areas, Farrar highlighted the need for further measures to prevent infections in various settings like hospitals, schools, and public transportation.

Overall, the introduction of the term “infectious respiratory particles” marks a foundational step towards standardizing communication in the scientific community and addressing challenges in combating the spread of airborne pathogens.