*Stop the Transmission, Crush the pandemic: Guidelines issued to prevent the transmission of the virus*

(Words 422)

The government is in a quest for a Coronavirus-free environment and to ensure this, people are encouraged to follow Covid Appropriate Behaviour. Considering this, the office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India has issued easy-to-follow guidelines to break the chain of transmission.

“As the pandemic rages in India, we need to once again remember that simple tools and practices can reduce the spread of SARS-CoV-2 virus,” said the Union government’s Principal Scientific Adviser.

In a set of new guidelines, the emphasis is given on masking, maintaining distance, adequate sanitation, and proper indoor ventilation. These suggestions are aimed at informing people on how best to cut transmission of the virus from further spreading in the community.

*”Stop the transmission, Crush the pandemic”*

A document titled ‘Stop the Transmission, Crush the Pandemic’ is released by the office of Principal Scientific Advisor that draws attention to the role of well-ventilated spaces in diluting the viral load of infected air.

Proper ventilation can reduce the risk of transmission of the virus from one person to another. Just as smells can be diluted through the air by opening windows and doors and using exhaust systems, ventilating spaces with improved directional airflow decrease the accumulated viral load in the air. This, in turn, reduces the risk of transmission, the document stated.

Further, the guidelines also introduced outdoor air in offices, homes and larger public spaces. Ventilation is a shield that can protect us at home or at work. Aligning with this, recommendations for improving ventilation for hutments, homes, offices, and large centralised buildings are given.

Placing the fans strategically, opening the windows and doors can improve the air quality. In order to curb the spread of the disease, cross ventilation and exhaust fans can be put to good use.

The document also states that hospitals and health centres must ensure that vaccinations are carried out in well-ventilated and directional airflow controlled areas.

*Key routes of virus transmission*

The SARS-CoV-2 multiplies in the body of an infected person and thereon transmits to others through various routes. The virus is released in the saliva and nasal discharge of the infected person, in the form of droplets and aerosols. Large size droplets fall to the ground and on the surface, while smaller aerosol particles are carried in the air to greater distances, hence becoming the primary source of transmission. Hence, it is advised to follow Covid Appropriate Behaviour rigorously to reduce and control the transmission of the virus.