Question

Which part of the body should be covered by a handkerchief while sneezing to prevent droplet infection to others?

Answer 1

Droplet infection is a type of infection through which cold and flu viruses or bacteria are spread from person to person through droplets. Droplets are released into the environment through saliva and mucus during coughing, sneezing and talk. The infectious droplets may enter the eyes, nose, or mouth of those who are in close proximity. Germs can also be transmitted when someone comes in contact with a surface where the droplets have landed.

Complete answer:
Droplet transmission occurs when infectious agents such as bacteria and viruses travel on relatively large respiratory droplets that people sneeze, cough or exhale. They travel a short distance before settling, usually less than three feet. The infectious particles are loaded within this droplet which can be spread directly if people are close to each other. The droplets also land on fomites. Fomites are inanimate objects that carry the infectious germs which when touched by a person, can contract that infection. For example, door knobs, switches, mats, newspapers etc.
Covering the mouth and nose with a handkerchief when coughing or sneezing prevents droplet spread. Wearing surgical masks is another way to stop droplet spread. Frequent hand washing and cleaning commonly touched infected surfaces is also very important.
Some of the common infections that can spread by droplet transmission are common cold, diphtheria, influenza, meningitis, mycoplasma, mumps, whooping cough, plague, rubella and pneumonia.

Note:
The recent outbreak of Covid- is also an infection that spreads through droplets. In hospitals the precautions taken to limit droplet infection include keeping the patient in an individual room, limiting their transport outside the room and using proper protective equipment. To dilute and remove respiratory particles from the room, higher ventilation rates are also used. The healthcare workers also wear surgical masks and N95 respirators to decrease the infection.