(U.S.) – The World Health Organization (WHO) has released guidelines regarding airborne droplets and the transmission of COVID-19.

Airborne transmission indicates that the illness could possibly spread from one person to another through particles known as aerosols, which can hover in the air even after a person has left the area.

WHO issued the new guidance on Thursday, July 9th where experts indicated airborne transmission of COVID-19 in crowded, indoor locations with poor ventilation “cannot be ruled out.” The organization previously noted that airborne transmission was only a concern in hospitals during certain medical procedures. However, according to reports, there have been outbreaks that have taken place in restaurants, fitness classes, and other gatherings that suggest possible evidence of airborne transmission.

However, experts continue to stress that even in these situations other forms of transmission, such as through larger droplets released in coughs and sneezes and from contaminated surfaces could still be to blame for the outbreaks.

The organization continues to indicate that the coronavirus is largely spread through those means. And maintained the recommendation for people to “avoid crowded places, close-contact settings, and confined and enclosed spaces with poor ventilation.”