What additional precaution is necessary for airborne transmission?

Airborne transmission refers to the spread of pathogens through tiny droplets or particles that can remain suspended in the air for prolonged periods and travel significant distances. This mode of transmission poses unique challenges, as typical barriers used to prevent the spread of infections, like surgical masks, may not provide sufficient protection in these circumstances.

An N95 respirator is specifically designed to filter out at least 95% of airborne particles, including those that are smaller than the particles typically blocked by surgical masks. The respirator creates a tight seal around the face, ensuring that inhaled air passes through the filter material. This feature is crucial when dealing with airborne diseases, as it significantly reduces the risk of inhalation of infectious agents that can linger in the air.

In environments where airborne transmission is a concern—like hospitals treating patients with diseases such as tuberculosis, measles, or COVID-19—using an N95 respirator is essential for healthcare workers and anyone potentially in proximity to infectious diseases. While other protective gear such as gowns and gloves may be important for contact precautions, they do not provide the same level of protection against airborne pathogens.