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Old 06-09-2020, 11:08 AM   #7
Garcia
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Quote:
Originally Posted by Pricestavern View Post
The difference is between people who are Asymptomatic vs preSymptomatic. The WHO is apologizing for it's muddy communication on the matter. They've been using the two interchangeably which is incorrect.

Asymptomatic people (those with the virus but not showing any symptoms) are 'rarely' spreading the disease. This is what everyone is focusing on.

Presymptomatic people are those who have caught the virus but are NOT YET showing symptoms, though they will show them in due course. These people can and do spread the virus.

The problem is you can't really tell if a person is presymptomatic or asymptomatic - it all appears the same until the presymptomatic person begins showing symptoms.

As the CDC writes: "The potential for presymptomatic transmission underscores the importance of social distancing, including the avoidance of congregate settings, to reduce Covid-19 spread."

The difference is subtle but important. Care will still need to be taken, I'm afraid.
A helpful clarification. Thank you.
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