Review of aerosol transmission of influenza A virus.
In theory, influenza viruses can be transmitted through aerosols, large droplets, or direct contact with secretions (or fomites). These 3 modes are not mutually exclusive. Published findings that support the occurrence of aerosol transmission were reviewed to assess the importance of this mode of transmission. Published evidence indicates that aerosol transmission of influenza can be an important mode of transmission, which has obvious implications for pandemic influenza planning and in particular for recommendations about the use of N95 respirators as part of personal protective equipment.
Tellier
Raymond
R
Division of Microbiology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada raymond.tellier@sickkids.ca
D000336:Aerosols; D000818:Animals; D001717:Birds; D004196:Disease Outbreaks; D006801:Humans; D053124:Influenza A Virus, H5N1 Subtype / Q000528:radiation effects; D005585:Influenza in Birds / Q000635:transmission*; D007251:Influenza, Human / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000635:transmission*; D012134:Respiratory Protective Devices; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays
D000336:Aerosols