Indian Institute
of Technology Bhubaneswar, in a new study has pointed out the importance of
social distancing to prevent the spread of COVID-19 infection. They found that tiny
droplets ejected during a sneeze can travel up to 25 feet without any
precautionary measures, such as a face mask and face shield.

The study
also mentioned that these precautionary measures are very effective as these
minimize the leakage and the reach of the sneeze within 1ft-3ft. However, these
do not give complete protection.

Along with
these precautionary measure, maintaining social distance of 6ft is equally
prominent. The study suggested to make use of hands and elbows during sneezing
or coughing to stop the transmission of droplets leakage even after wearing masks
or face gears, statement by IIT Bhubaneswar.

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The statement
also mentioned that the study was conducted on the potential of various
non-standard and standard face masks under the act of sneezing.

Prof R V Raja Kumar,
Director, IIT Bhubaneswar, said the faculty and students groups of the
Institute have worked tirelessly during the COVID-19 pandemic by coming up with
technology development and research studies of high societal relevance.

The study also said, how
in this situation of COVID-19, this study will make people understand the
movement of these tiny particles in a turbulent flow, which results in the transferring
of COVID-19 infection. Hopefully, this will open the eyes of people to wear
mask and maintain social distancing.

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Prof Raja
Kumar added, the researchers at IIT Bhubaneswar will carry on with the COVID-19
related research and development to serve the humankind in this tough fight
with this deadly pandemic.