Sneeze vs. Cough: How Far and Fast Do Droplets Travel?

Sneeze

• Speed: Up to 100 mph (160 km/h)
• Distance: Up to 27 feet (8 meters)

Cough

• Speed: Up to 50 mph (80 km/h)
• Distance: Up to 6 feet (2 meters)

Sneezes are significantly more forceful than coughs and can propel respiratory droplets much farther. This underscores the importance of covering your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing to limit germ spread.