Assessing Infection Risks for Children After Exposure to Spit

Thank you for your inquiry?

Hello, Dr.
Hong: Today, my husband took a day off and we went out to eat clay pot chicken with our baby.
Although it seems that the pandemic is less talked about in the country now, I still try to wear a mask and ask my husband to do the same to protect our child, as it's difficult for the baby to wear one.
While waiting for my husband to settle the bill, I had just finished eating and thought I would quickly go to the parking area without my mask.
However, a male staff member walked to the entrance and spat in the direction of my child and me.
I was about a meter away, roughly the distance of a stroller.
I’m not sure if he noticed we were there or if he was aware of the pandemic.
I personally found this behavior very disrespectful, but my husband told me to let it go and that it should be fine.

I would like to ask the doctor what the risk of infection is for me and my child in this situation.
After seeing him spit, I quickly pushed the stroller away from that spot.
Since having a child, I have become more anxious compared to when I was a student, when I didn’t pay much attention to such things.
Now, I am really worried about not being able to protect my child enough.
My husband says I am being overly cautious and that staying at home too much can be unhealthy, but I’m just afraid of the "what if."
Could you please advise me on the likelihood of transmission in this scenario and how to protect my child? It’s also difficult for her to wear a mask, and she doesn’t seem to like it.
Thank you for taking the time to address my concerns on your day off.
I wish you a pleasant holiday.

Cindy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/26

Dr. Hong Yuanbin reply Internal Medicine

Based on your description, it seems that you were approximately one meter away from a potential droplet exposure outdoors.
Since it is a more open space, the risk of transmission should be very low, especially since you and your family were wearing masks.
Therefore, the likelihood of infection is quite minimal.

As for ways to avoid infection, spending time outdoors can indeed be beneficial for health, and choosing less crowded areas is advisable.
If you are in an environment without other people, you may not need to wear a mask.
However, if you are in a space where there is a chance of close contact with others, it is still safer to wear a mask.
Thank you for your question.

Reply Date: 2020/09/26

More Info

When it comes to assessing the risk of infection for children after exposure to saliva or respiratory secretions, such as spitting, it's important to consider several factors, including the nature of the exposure, the health status of the person who spat, and the preventive measures taken afterward.

In your case, you mentioned that a male employee spat in your direction while you were about one meter away. This distance is significant because respiratory droplets, which can carry viruses, typically travel only a short distance before falling to the ground. The risk of transmission decreases with distance, and since you moved away quickly, this further reduces the likelihood of any potential exposure.

If the individual who spat was not exhibiting any symptoms of illness, such as coughing or sneezing, the risk of transmitting infections like COVID-19, influenza, or other respiratory viruses is relatively low. However, if he were symptomatic or known to be infected with a contagious disease, the risk could be higher. It's also worth noting that many respiratory viruses require close contact for transmission, and simply being in the vicinity of someone who spits does not guarantee infection.

For children, especially infants, the immune system is still developing, making them more susceptible to infections. However, the protective measures you take can significantly mitigate these risks. Here are some recommendations to help protect your child:
1. Hygiene Practices: Encourage frequent handwashing for both you and your child. Use soap and water or hand sanitizer, especially after being in public places. This is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of infections.

2. Avoid Close Contact: Maintain a safe distance from individuals who are coughing, sneezing, or showing signs of illness. If someone is behaving in a way that makes you uncomfortable, such as spitting, it’s best to move away.

3. Mask Usage: While you mentioned that your child does not like wearing a mask, it’s still a good idea for adults to wear masks in crowded or enclosed spaces, especially if there are concerns about respiratory illnesses. For children, consider using masks that are comfortable and age-appropriate, and try to make it a fun experience.

4. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your child for any signs of illness, such as fever, cough, or unusual behavior. If symptoms develop, consult a healthcare provider for guidance.

5. Vaccinations: Ensure that your child is up to date with vaccinations, including those for influenza and COVID-19, as these can provide significant protection against severe illness.

6. Educate About Personal Space: As your child grows, teach them about personal space and the importance of keeping a safe distance from others, especially in public settings.

In conclusion, while the incident you described may have caused concern, the actual risk of infection from that specific exposure appears to be low, especially if no symptoms were present from the individual who spat. By continuing to practice good hygiene and taking preventive measures, you can help protect your child from potential infections. If you have ongoing concerns or if your child shows any signs of illness, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for further advice.

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