Background- It is clear that Covid- 19 has been a fatal and vicious virus causing a pandemic, but how is it actually spread? The answer to that question can be found in the World Health Organization’s article titled “Coronavirus disease (COVID-19): How is it transmitted?”.  The article discusses how the SARS-CoV-2 virus, commonly known as the Coronavirus, is spread between people. First, lets quickly zoom into the biological elements of transmission. On a cellular level, the outside of a coronavirus molecule is a spike protein which latches on to specific receptors that fuse it into human cells. The proteins “trick” the human cells into letting them enter and infect them. Once in the healthy cell, the virus spreads its genetic material and spreads throughout your body.

When/Where can the virus spread more easily?- The risk of transmission is highest when people are in close proximity to others for a long period of time. The World Health Organization, or WHO, describes that the more people in a group, the more likely the virus will spread. Any crowded spaces, close contact, or confined spaces with a lack of ventilation. Additionally, it has been found that people are most contagious early on in their illness, although this can range person- to- person.

Transmission of virus via liquid particles – The WHO claims that one way in which a person can transmit the virus is through small liquid particles spread by coughing, sneezing, speaking, or even just breathing. The liquid particles, most commonly respiratory droplets, vary in size, and transmit the virus from person to person. When in close contact with someone with the virus– less than six feet– you can catch the virus through your mouth, nose, or eyes.

Aerosol transmission- Aerosol transmission is when the virus travels through particles in the air to infect people. This transmission is most likely to occur indoors, and particularly in crowded spaces with a lack of ventilation.

What is really important that we understand about transmission is how this virus transmits, meaning how does this virus move from one individual to another?- Dr Maria Van Kerkhove

My Opinion- I think it is super important to educate yourself on how the virus spreads from person- to- person in order to avoid the situations in which transmission is most likely. Further, it is rather interesting to learn about how the virus enters your cells, and biologically infects your body.

I would love to hear your reactions or thoughts in the comments!