Science is fundamental to an effective pandemic response. The Biden administration’s commitment to science and transparency brings us hope that Covid-19 can be combatted in 2021!

A central part of a science-based pandemic response is how the virus is transmitted. Effective measures stop or slow spread of the virus. For Covid-19, the scientific evidence is overwhelming—this coronavirus is transmitted via infectious aerosols emitted by infected people when they breathe, speak, cough, sneeze, or sing. These aerosols span a wide range of sizes and can travel long distances and remain suspended for long periods.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s denial of the scientific evidence on Covid-19 aerosol transmission has led to weak guidance, especially for health care facilities and other workplaces. CDC’s weak Covid-19 guidance has contributed to countless infections, hospitalizations, and deaths from Covid-19. To bring Covid-19 under control, the CDC and other federal agencies must immediately and fully recognize aerosol transmission of the virus that causes Covid-19.

We look forward to the work of new CDC Director, Dr. Rochelle Walensky, who has reiterated her commitment to science. As Dr. Walensky begins her comprehensive review of CDC’s Covid-19 guidance, it is of paramount importance that aerosol transmission is explicitly recognized by the agency. We eagerly await the day that science-based guidance is our reality again.

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