Up to what distance can someone else infect me with COVID-19?

COVID-19 can be transmitted through droplets and aerosols expelled by infected individuals when they talk, cough, sneeze, sing, or breathe. The distance at which someone can become infected varies depending on several factors, such as ventilation, duration of exposure, and type of activity.

Most droplets containing the virus are emitted within a radius of 1.5 to 2 meters. This is the basis for the usual recommendation to keep at least 1.5 meters away from others. In environments where people are close together, such as in crowded indoor spaces, the risk of infection via droplets is greater.

Aerosols are much smaller than droplets and can remain in the air for longer and travel over greater distances, especially in poorly ventilated spaces. In some cases, they can be transmitted over distances of more than 2 meters. Risks are higher in indoor spaces with poor ventilation, such as offices, restaurants, classrooms or public transport. Activities such as singing, shouting or intense physical exertion can also increase the amount of aerosols in the air.

Good ventilation can significantly reduce the risk of spreading aerosols by quickly removing or diluting particles from the air. Airflow, such as air conditioning or fans, can move droplets or aerosols over longer distances, which can increase the risk of infection.

Source: https://www.who.int/news-room/commentaries/detail/transmission-of-sars-cov-2-implications-for-infection-prevention-precautions

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2022-12-09 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2025