Arguments pour une possible transmission par voie aérienne du SARS-CoV-2 dans la crise COVID-19

Understanding routes of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is a key element in establishing both occupational health and public health guidelines in the Covid-19 management. SARS-CoV-2 is found in patients’ airways, including for asymptomatic ones. Available data suggest a underestimated risk of air transmission of SARS-CoV-2 when an infected individual coughs or sneezes, but also when he speaks or simply breezes, the majority of emitted particles being smaller than 1 μm. Preliminary data indicate the presence of viral RNA in air samples and on surfaces far from source patients. However, it is important to note that the detection of viral genetic material by RT-PCR does not mean that the virus is alive or infectious. According to data on the quantification of the infective power of such aerosol with small size particles and if such air transmission was confirmed, a larger use of N95 respirators should be promoted particularly in health care units.