But is the flue airborne?
Knowing how the flu is spread can help you prevent infection and minimize your risk.
Droplets vs. Aerosols
Droplets are heavy.
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They generally sink to the ground within about 6 feet of the infected person.
That means if you stay more than 6 feet away, you are less likely to become infected.
Aerosols are produced by coughing or sneezing, just like droplets.
However, they are smaller and lighter, so they float in the air longer.
you could begin spreading the flu one day before symptoms appear.
Researchers believe that this was largely due to COVID-related precautions including social distancing affecting flu rates.
The 2022-2023 year was similar to flu seasons prior to the pandemic.
It also peaked earlier in the season than previous years.
Summary
Influenza is primarily spread through airborne transmission via aerosols.
However, research indicates that some transmission of the flu happens from coming into contact with an infected surface.
Scientists are still studying how, precisely, the flu is spread.
However, they know that
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Healthy habits to prevent the flu.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.2020-2021 Flu Season Summary.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Past Seasons Estimated Influenza Disease Burden.
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doi:10.1016/S2214-109X(22)00358-8
