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Moura CRF, Garcia BCC, de Oliveira Ottone V, Brito PL, Silva TJ, Cantuária VL, de Oliveira DB, Rocha-Vieira E. SARS-CoV-2 genome incidence on the inanimate surface of the material used in the flow of biological samples from the collection point to the testing unit. Ir J Med Sci 2024; 193:1369-1375. [PMID: 37882949 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-023-03554-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/27/2023]
Abstract
Despite the undeniable effect of vaccination against COVID-19 in reducing disease severity, there is still a need to monitor and limit SARS-CoV-2 circulation and transmission. Thus, this study evaluated the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 genome on the surfaces of highly touched objects manipulated in the biological sample collection point and at the reception unit of the diagnostic laboratory. Surfaces were sampled once a week, for 6 weeks, between September 18th and October 23rd, 2020. RT-qPCR was used for SARS-CoV-2 detection. The coolers for biological sample transportation and the envelope containing the patient form were the objects with the highest occurrence of viral genome detection, although it was detected in each object in only two of the 6 evaluations. And the SARS-CoV-2 genome was detected just once on the vehicle steering wheel, computer keyboard, bathroom door handle and disinfection bench. The virus genome was not detected in any object on three of the six evaluations. And eight was the largest number of surfaces contaminated by the virus genome on one occasion. The reduced incidence of object contamination by the SARS-CoV-2 genome can be explained by the exposure of the objects to environmental conditions and the adoption of virus-spread containment measures. It can also reflect the low incidence of SARS-CoV-2 during the study's development period. Despite the low frequency of SARS-CoV-2 genome detection, our findings show that the virus was present in the environment at some point. This highlights the importance of adopting personal preventive measures to reduce respiratory virus spread, especially during epidemics and outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristiane Rocha Fagundes Moura
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Basic and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Bruna Caroline Chaves Garcia
- Multicentric Graduate Program on Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Basic and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Vinicius de Oliveira Ottone
- Multicentric Graduate Program on Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Basic and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Philipe Luan Brito
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Thyago José Silva
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Graduate Program on Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Vinicius Lopes Cantuária
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Graduate Program on Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Danilo Bretas de Oliveira
- Multicentric Graduate Program on Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Basic and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
- Graduate Program on Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Etel Rocha-Vieira
- Multicentric Graduate Program on Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Basic and Health Sciences, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
- Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
- Graduate Program on Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidade Federal dos Vales do Jequitinhonha e Mucuri, Diamantina, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
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Thampi N, Burhunduli T, Strain J, Raudanskis A, Moggridge JA, Hinz A, Doukhanine E, Castellani L, Kassen R, McCready J, Nott C, Wong A, Fralick M, MacFadden DR. Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in schools using built environment testing in Ottawa, Canada: A multi-facility prospective surveillance study. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300397. [PMID: 38758922 PMCID: PMC11101119 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300397] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Classroom and staffroom floor swabs across six elementary schools in Ottawa, Canada were tested for SARS-CoV-2. Environmental test positivity did not correlate with student grade groups, school-level absenteeism, pediatric COVID-19-related hospitalizations, or community SARS-CoV-2 wastewater levels. Schools in neighbourhoods with historically elevated COVID-19 burden showed a negative but non-significant association with lower swab positivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisha Thampi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- CHEO Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Jamie Strain
- CHEO Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ashley Raudanskis
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jason A. Moggridge
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Aaron Hinz
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Lucas Castellani
- Sault Area Hospital, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada
- Clinical Sciences Division, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada
| | - Rees Kassen
- Department of Biology, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Biology, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Janine McCready
- Michael Garron Hospital, Toronto East Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Caroline Nott
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alex Wong
- Institute for Advancing Health Through Agriculture, Texas A&M AgriLife, Fort Worth, Texas, United States of America
| | - Michael Fralick
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Derek R. MacFadden
- The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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3
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Naito S, Nakamura I, Umezu T, Hata A, Madarame A, Uchida K, Koyama Y, Morise T, Yamaguchi H, Kono S, Sugimoto M, Kawai T, Harada Y, Kuroda M, Fukuzawa M, Itoi T. Effect of COVID-19 infection on the gastrointestinal tract considering preventive methods during endoscopic procedures. DEN OPEN 2024; 4:e290. [PMID: 37644959 PMCID: PMC10461040 DOI: 10.1002/deo2.290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Objectives This study aimed to prevent the infection risk of environmental contamination by feces during endoscopic procedures. We evaluated the effect of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) on the gastrointestinal tract using fecal polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and examined risk factors affecting endoscopic procedures, to develop infection prevention strategies. Methods This single-center prospective observational study enrolled 32 patients diagnosed with COVID-19 at Tokyo Medical University Hospital between January and December 2022. We performed reverse transcriptase-PCR to detect severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in human stool specimens and evaluated the COVID-19 positivity rate in stool, the effect of vaccination on infection detection, and differences in positivity rates considering different patient backgrounds. Results Among the 32 nasal PCR-positive patients who underwent fecal PCR testing, the fecal PCR positivity rate was 21.8%. Compared to the negative cases, 71.4% vs. 32% were older than 65 years (p < 0.016), 71.4% vs. 0.8% (p < 0.001) had malignant tumors, the rate during BA.5 variant outbreaks was significantly higher (100% vs. 60% [p = 0.044]), and the rate of diarrheal symptoms was also higher (42.9% vs. 24%). The median collection period for fecal PCR-positive cases was 2 days after sampling. Conclusions The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 affects not only the upper respiratory tract but also the gastrointestinal tract. These findings may indicate the risk of digestive fluid infection in older patients with gastrointestinal symptoms and immunocompromised patients with malignant tumor comorbidities, especially during the early stages of viral infection. Therefore, it is advisable to establish a system to prevent infection by using personal protective equipment, including eye guards, in future endoscopic procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sakiko Naito
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Itaru Nakamura
- Department of Infection Control and PreventionTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Tomohiro Umezu
- Department of Molecular PathologyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Akihiro Hata
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Akira Madarame
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Kumiko Uchida
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Yohei Koyama
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Takashi Morise
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Hayato Yamaguchi
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Shin Kono
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Mitsushige Sugimoto
- Department of Gastroenterological EndoscopyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Takashi Kawai
- Department of Gastroenterological EndoscopyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Yuichiro Harada
- Department of Molecular PathologyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Masahiko Kuroda
- Department of Molecular PathologyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Masakatsu Fukuzawa
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
| | - Takao Itoi
- Department of Gastroenterology and HepatologyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
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Hilton J, Nanao Y, Flokstra M, Askari M, Smith TK, Di Falco A, King PDC, Wahl P, Adamson CS. The role of ion dissolution in metal and metal oxide surface inactivation of SARS-CoV-2. Appl Environ Microbiol 2024; 90:e0155323. [PMID: 38259079 PMCID: PMC10880620 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01553-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Anti-viral surface coatings are under development to prevent viral fomite transmission from high-traffic touch surfaces in public spaces. Copper's anti-viral properties have been widely documented, but the anti-viral mechanism of copper surfaces is not fully understood. We screened a series of metal and metal oxide surfaces for anti-viral activity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the causative agent of coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Copper and copper oxide surfaces exhibited superior anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity; however, the level of anti-viral activity was dependent on the composition of the carrier solution used to deliver virus inoculum. We demonstrate that copper ions released into solution from test surfaces can mediate virus inactivation, indicating a copper ion dissolution-dependent anti-viral mechanism. The level of anti-viral activity is, however, not dependent on the amount of copper ions released into solution per se. Instead, our findings suggest that degree of virus inactivation is dependent on copper ion complexation with other biomolecules (e.g., proteins/metabolites) in the virus carrier solution that compete with viral components. Although using tissue culture-derived virus inoculum is experimentally convenient to evaluate the anti-viral activity of copper-derived test surfaces, we propose that the high organic content of tissue culture medium reduces the availability of "uncomplexed" copper ions to interact with the virus, negatively affecting virus inactivation and hence surface anti-viral performance. We propose that laboratory anti-viral surface testing should include virus delivered in a physiologically relevant carrier solution (saliva or nasal secretions when testing respiratory viruses) to accurately predict real-life surface anti-viral performance when deployed in public spaces.IMPORTANCEThe purpose of evaluating the anti-viral activity of test surfaces in the laboratory is to identify surfaces that will perform efficiently in preventing fomite transmission when deployed on high-traffic touch surfaces in public spaces. The conventional method in laboratory testing is to use tissue culture-derived virus inoculum; however, this study demonstrates that anti-viral performance of test copper-containing surfaces is dependent on the composition of the carrier solution in which the virus inoculum is delivered to test surfaces. Therefore, we recommend that laboratory surface testing should include virus delivered in a physiologically relevant carrier solution to accurately predict real-life test surface performance in public spaces. Understanding the mechanism of virus inactivation is key to future rational design of improved anti-viral surfaces. Here, we demonstrate that release of copper ions from copper surfaces into small liquid droplets containing SARS-CoV-2 is a mechanism by which the virus that causes COVID-19 can be inactivated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane Hilton
- Biomedical Sciences Research Complex, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
| | - Yoshiko Nanao
- SUPA, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
| | - Machiel Flokstra
- SUPA, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
| | - Meisam Askari
- SUPA, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
| | - Terry K. Smith
- Biomedical Sciences Research Complex, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Di Falco
- SUPA, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
| | - Phil D. C. King
- SUPA, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Wahl
- SUPA, School of Physics and Astronomy, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
| | - Catherine S. Adamson
- Biomedical Sciences Research Complex, School of Biology, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, Fife, United Kingdom
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Zhang Y, Shankar SN, Vass WB, Lednicky JA, Fan ZH, Agdas D, Makuch R, Wu CY. Air Change Rate and SARS-CoV-2 Exposure in Hospitals and Residences: A Meta-Analysis. AEROSOL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR AEROSOL RESEARCH 2024; 58:217-243. [PMID: 38764553 PMCID: PMC11101186 DOI: 10.1080/02786826.2024.2312178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
As SARS-CoV-2 swept across the globe, increased ventilation and implementation of air cleaning were emphasized by the US CDC and WHO as important strategies to reduce the risk of inhalation exposure to the virus. To assess whether higher ventilation and air cleaning rates lead to lower exposure risk to SARS-CoV-2, 1274 manuscripts published between April 2020 and September 2022 were screened using key words "airborne SARS-CoV-2 or "SARS-CoV-2 aerosol". Ninety-three studies involved air sampling at locations with known sources (hospitals and residences) were selected and associated data were compiled. Two metrics were used to assess exposure risk: SARS-CoV-2 concentration and SARS-CoV-2 detection rate in air samples. Locations were categorized by type (hospital or residence) and proximity to the sampling location housing the isolated/quarantined patient (primary or secondary). The results showed that hospital wards had lower airborne virus concentrations than residential isolation rooms. A negative correlation was found between airborne virus concentrations in primary-occupancy areas and air changes per hour (ACH). In hospital settings, sample positivity rates were significantly reduced in secondary-occupancy areas compared to primary-occupancy areas, but they were similar across sampling locations in residential settings. ACH and sample positivity rates were negatively correlated, though the effect was diminished when ACH values exceeded 8. While limitations associated with diverse sampling protocols exist, data considered by this meta-analysis support the notion that higher ACH may reduce exposure risks to the virus in ambient air.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuetong Zhang
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columnia, Canada
| | - Sripriya Nannu Shankar
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Environmental & Public Health Sciences, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - William B. Vass
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - John A. Lednicky
- Department of Environmental and Global Health, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Z. Hugh Fan
- Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Duzgun Agdas
- Engineering School of Sustainable Infrastructure & Environment, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Robert Makuch
- Department of Biostatistics, Yale University School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Chang-Yu Wu
- Department of Environmental Engineering Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Chemical, Environmental, and Materials Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, Florida, USA
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6
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Kennedy B, Ashokan A, Lim CK, Lagana D, Juraja M, Shaw D. Designed for a pandemic: Mitigating the risk of SARS-CoV-2 transmission through hospital design and infrastructure. Infect Dis Health 2024; 29:25-31. [PMID: 37806908 DOI: 10.1016/j.idh.2023.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To describe the new Royal Adelaide Hospital (RAH) design and infrastructure features that helped mitigate the risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission within the hospital during the pre-vaccination and pre-antiviral period. METHOD The RAH infrastructure, design and initial pandemic response was assessed. A retrospective review of all confirmed or suspected coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients admitted from 1 February 2020 to 30 May 2020 was also performed to assess risk of transmission. Outbreak response reports were reviewed to identify episodes of nosocomial COVID-19. RESULTS Key infrastructure features include single-bed overnight rooms with dedicated bathrooms, creation of pandemic areas accessible only to pandemic staff, and sophisticated air-handling units with improved ventilation. A total of 264 COVID-19 related admission occurred, with 113 confirmed cases and 1579 total cumulative bed days. Despite a limited understanding of SARS-CoV-2 transmission, no vaccination or anti-viral therapy, global shortages of particulate filter respirators and restricted testing during this period, only one probable nosocomial COVID-19 case occurred in a healthcare worker, with no nosocomial cases involving patients. CONCLUSIONS The RAH design and pandemic features complimented existing infection control interventions and was important in limiting nosocomial spread of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brendan Kennedy
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
| | - Anushia Ashokan
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | | | - Diana Lagana
- Infection Prevention and Control Unit, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Marija Juraja
- Infection Prevention and Control Unit, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - David Shaw
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Central Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia; Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Lu FT, Laumbach RJ, Legard A, Myers NT, Black KG, Ohman-Strickland P, Alimokhtari S, de Resende A, Calderón L, Mainelis G, Kipen HM. Real-World Effectiveness of Portable Air Cleaners in Reducing Home Particulate Matter Concentrations. AEROSOL AND AIR QUALITY RESEARCH 2024; 24:230202. [PMID: 38618024 PMCID: PMC11014421 DOI: 10.4209/aaqr.230202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Portable air cleaners (PACs) equipped with HEPA filters are gaining attention as cost-effective means of decreasing indoor particulate matter (PM) air pollutants and airborne viruses. However, the performance of PACs in naturalistic settings and spaces beyond the room containing the PAC is not well characterized. We conducted a single-blinded randomized cross-over interventional study between November 2020 and May 2021 in the homes of adults who tested positive for COVID-19. The intervention was air filtration with PAC operated with the HEPA filter set installed ("filter" condition) versus removed ("sham" condition, i.e., control). Sampling was performed in 29 homes for two consecutive 24-hour periods in the primary room (containing the PAC) and a secondary room. PAC effectiveness, calculated as reductions in overall mean PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations during the filter condition, were for the primary rooms 78.8% and 63.9% (n = 23), respectively, and for the secondary rooms 57.9% and 60.4% (n = 22), respectively. When a central air handler (CAH) was reported to be in use, filter-associated reductions of PM were statistically significant during the day (06:00-22:00) and night (22:01-05:59) in the primary rooms but only during the day in the secondary rooms. Our study adds to the literature evaluating the real-world effects of PACs on a secondary room and considering the impact of central air systems on PAC performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederic T. Lu
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Robert J. Laumbach
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Alicia Legard
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Nirmala T. Myers
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Environmental Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Kathleen G. Black
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Pamela Ohman-Strickland
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Shahnaz Alimokhtari
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Adriana de Resende
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Leonardo Calderón
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Environmental Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Gediminas Mainelis
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Environmental Sciences, School of Environmental and Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Howard M. Kipen
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Justice, School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
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8
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Reissner J, Siller P, Bartel A, Roesler U, Friese A. Stability of Feline Coronavirus in aerosols and dried in organic matrices on surfaces at various environmental conditions. Sci Rep 2023; 13:22012. [PMID: 38086913 PMCID: PMC10716419 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-49361-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Enveloped respiratory viruses, including the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), can be transmitted through aerosols and contact with contaminated surfaces. The stability of these viruses outside the host significantly impacts their transmission dynamics and the spread of diseases. In this study, we investigated the tenacity of Feline Coronavirus (FCoV) in aerosols and on surfaces under varying environmental conditions. We found that airborne FCoV showed different stability depending on relative humidity (RH), with higher stability observed at low and high RH. Medium RH conditions (50-60%) were associated with increased loss of infectivity. Furthermore, FCoV remained infectious in the airborne state over 7 h. On stainless-steel surfaces, FCoV remained infectious for several months, with stability influenced by organic material and temperature. The presence of yeast extract and a temperature of 4 °C resulted in the longest maintenance of infectivity, with a 5 log10 reduction of the initial concentration after 167 days. At 20 °C, this reduction was achieved after 19 days. These findings highlight the potential risk of aerosol and contact transmission of respiratory viruses, especially in enclosed environments, over extended periods. Studying surrogate viruses like FCoV provides important insights into the behavior of zoonotic viruses like SARS-CoV-2 in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janina Reissner
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Health, Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research-TZR, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Paul Siller
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Health, Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research-TZR, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
- Federal Office of Consumer Protection and Food Safety, Department Veterinary Drugs, Mittelstraße 51-54, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Alexander Bartel
- Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Uwe Roesler
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Health, Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research-TZR, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Anika Friese
- Institute of Animal Hygiene and Environmental Health, Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research-TZR, School of Veterinary Medicine, Freie Universität Berlin, 14163, Berlin, Germany
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9
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Vega-Rodriguez W, Ly H. Epidemiological, serological, and genetic evidence of influenza D virus infection in humans: Is it a justifiable cause for concern? Virulence 2023; 14:2150443. [PMID: 36411274 PMCID: PMC9817117 DOI: 10.1080/21505594.2022.2150443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Hinh Ly
- Department of Veterinary & Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, MN, USA,CONTACT Hinh Ly
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10
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Arienzo A, Gallo V, Tomassetti F, Pitaro N, Pitaro M, Antonini G. A narrative review of alternative transmission routes of COVID 19: what we know so far. Pathog Glob Health 2023; 117:681-695. [PMID: 37350182 PMCID: PMC10614718 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2023.2228048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemics, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronaviruses, SARS-CoV-2, represent an unprecedented public health challenge. Beside person-to-person contagion via airborne droplets and aerosol, which is the main SARS-CoV-2's route of transmission, alternative modes, including transmission via fomites, food and food packaging, have been investigated for their potential impact on SARS-CoV-2 diffusion. In this context, several studies have demonstrated the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA and, in some cases, of infectious particles on exposed fomites, food and water samples, confirming their possible role as sources of contamination and transmission. Indeed, fomite-to-human transmission has been demonstrated in a few cases where person-to-person transmission had been excluded. In addition, recent studies supported the possibility of acquiring COVID-19 through the fecal-oro route; the occurrence of COVID-19 gastrointestinal infections, in the absence of respiratory symptoms, also opens the intriguing possibility that these cases could be directly related to the ingestion of contaminated food and water. Overall, most of the studies considered these alternative routes of transmission of low epidemiological relevance; however, it should be considered that they could play an important role, or even be prevalent, in settings characterized by different environmental and socio-economic conditions. In this review, we discuss the most recent findings regarding SARS-CoV-2 alternative transmission routes, with the aim to disclose what is known about their impact on COVID-19 spread and to stimulate research in this field, which could potentially have a great impact, especially in low-resource contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Michele Pitaro
- National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems (INBB), Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Antonini
- National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems (INBB), Rome, Italy
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
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11
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Zhou J, Sukhova K, Peacock TP, McKay PF, Brown JC, Frise R, Baillon L, Moshe M, Kugathasan R, Shattock RJ, Barclay WS. Omicron breakthrough infections in vaccinated or previously infected hamsters. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2308655120. [PMID: 37903249 PMCID: PMC10636328 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2308655120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The ongoing SARS-CoV-2 epidemic was marked by the repeated emergence and replacement of "variants" with genetic and phenotypic distance from the ancestral strains, the most recent examples being viruses of the Omicron lineage. Here, we describe a hamster direct contact exposure challenge model to assess protection against reinfection conferred by either vaccination or prior infection. We found that two doses of self-amplifying RNA vaccine based on the ancestral Spike ameliorated weight loss following Delta infection and decreased viral loads but had minimal effect on Omicron BA.1 infection. Prior vaccination followed by Delta or BA.1 breakthrough infections led to a high degree of cross-reactivity to all tested variants, suggesting that repeated exposure to antigenically distinct Spikes, via infection and/or vaccination drives a cross-reactive immune response. Prior infection with ancestral or Alpha variant was partially protective against BA.1 infection, whereas all animals previously infected with Delta and exposed to BA.1 became reinfected, although they shed less virus than BA.1-infected naive hamsters. Hamsters reinfected with BA.1 after prior Delta infection emitted infectious virus into the air, indicating that they could be responsible for onwards airborne transmission. We further tested whether prior infection with BA.1 protected from reinfection with Delta or later Omicron sublineages BA.2, BA.4, or BA.5. BA.1 was protective against BA.2 but not against Delta, BA.4, or BA.5 reinfection. These findings suggest that cohorts whose only immune experience of COVID-19 is Omicron BA.1 infection may be vulnerable to future circulation of reemerged Delta-like derivatives, as well as emerging Omicron sublineages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhou
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, LondonW2 1PG, United Kingdom
| | - Ksenia Sukhova
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, LondonW2 1PG, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas P. Peacock
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, LondonW2 1PG, United Kingdom
| | - Paul F. McKay
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, LondonW2 1PG, United Kingdom
| | - Jonathan C. Brown
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, LondonW2 1PG, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca Frise
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, LondonW2 1PG, United Kingdom
| | - Laury Baillon
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, LondonW2 1PG, United Kingdom
| | - Maya Moshe
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, LondonW2 1PG, United Kingdom
| | - Ruthiran Kugathasan
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, LondonW2 1PG, United Kingdom
| | - Robin J. Shattock
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, LondonW2 1PG, United Kingdom
| | - Wendy S. Barclay
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, LondonW2 1PG, United Kingdom
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12
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Zhou J, Singanayagam A, Barclay WS. Is it possible to generalise superspreading individuals or events of SARS-CoV-2? - Authors' reply. THE LANCET. MICROBE 2023; 4:e859. [PMID: 37640040 DOI: 10.1016/s2666-5247(23)00254-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhou
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
| | - Anika Singanayagam
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK
| | - Wendy S Barclay
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London W2 1PG, UK.
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13
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Hardison RL, Lee SD, Limmer R, Marx J, Taylor BM, Barriga D, Nelson SW, Feliciano-Ruiz N, Stewart MJ, Calfee MW, James RR, Ryan SP, Howard MW. Sampling and recovery of infectious SARS-CoV-2 from high-touch surfaces by sponge stick and macrofoam swab. JOURNAL OF OCCUPATIONAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL HYGIENE 2023; 20:506-519. [PMID: 37382490 DOI: 10.1080/15459624.2023.2231516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Effective sampling for severe acute respiratory syndrome 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a common approach for monitoring disinfection efficacy and effective environmental surveillance. This study evaluated sampling efficiency and limits of detection (LODs) of macrofoam swab and sponge stick sampling methods for recovering infectious SARS-CoV-2 and viral RNA (vRNA) from surfaces. Macrofoam swab and sponge stick methods were evaluated for collection of SARS-CoV-2 suspended in a soil load from 6-in2 coupons composed of four materials: stainless steel (SS), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) plastic, bus seat fabric, and Formica. Recovery of infectious SARS-CoV-2 was more efficient than vRNA recovery on all materials except Formica (macrofoam swab sampling) and ABS (sponge stick sampling). Macrofoam swab sampling recovered significantly more vRNA from Formica than ABS and SS, and sponge stick sampling recovered significantly more vRNA from ABS than Formica and SS, suggesting that material and sampling method choice can affect surveillance results. Time since initial contamination significantly affected infectious virus recovery from all materials, with vRNA recovery showing limited to no difference, suggesting that SARS-CoV-2 vRNA can remain detectable after viral infectivity has dissipated. This study showed that a complex relationship exists between sampling method, material, time from contamination to sampling, and recovery of SARS-CoV-2. In conclusion, data show that careful consideration be used when selecting surface types for sampling and interpreting SARS-CoV-2 vRNA recovery with respect to presence of infectious virus.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sang Don Lee
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | | | - Joel Marx
- Battelle Memorial Institute, Columbus, Ohio
| | | | | | | | | | - Michael J Stewart
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | - M Worth Calfee
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
| | | | - Shawn P Ryan
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
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14
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Aho Glele LS, de Rougemont A. Non-Pharmacological Strategies and Interventions for Effective COVID-19 Control: A Narrative Review. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6465. [PMID: 37892603 PMCID: PMC10607620 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12206465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/07/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic had a devastating impact on the world, causing widespread illness and death. Focusing on prevention strategies to limit the spread of the disease remains essential. Despite the advent of vaccines, maintaining a vigilant approach to prevention remains paramount. We reviewed effective strategies to prevent COVID-19 transmission, including various prevention measures and interventions and both established practices and unresolved issues that have been addressed in meta-analyses, literature reviews, or in the health care context. Standard precautions are the cornerstone of infection control, with hand hygiene and mask use as key components. The use of surgical masks is recommended to prevent droplet transmission, while eye protection is recommended in combination with masks. In terms of room occupancy, ventilation is critical in reducing the risk of transmission in poorly ventilated environments. Chemical disinfection of indoor air with Triethylene glycol-based products can provide safe additional protection. Since viral RNA detection on surfaces does not necessarily indicate infectivity, the risk of transmission by surface contact remains low if surfaces are properly maintained and hand hygiene is practiced regularly. Thus, prevention of SARS-CoV-2 transmission requires a multifaceted approach, including reducing particle emissions from infected persons by wearing masks, eliminating aerosols by ventilation and air treatment, ensuring physical separation, and protecting exposed persons with masks and eye protection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludwig Serge Aho Glele
- Epidemiology and Infection Control Department, University Hospital of Dijon, 21000 Dijon, France
| | - Alexis de Rougemont
- National Reference Centre for Gastroenteritis Viruses, Laboratory of Virology, University Hospital of Dijon, 21000 Dijon, France;
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Yang J, Sun D, Xia T, Shi S, Suo J, Kuang H, Sun N, Hu H, Zheng Z, Zhou Y, Li X, Chen S, Huang H, Yan Z. Monitoring Prevalence and Persistence of Environmental Contamination by SARS-CoV-2 RNA in a Makeshift Hospital for Asymptomatic and Very Mild COVID-19 Patients. Int J Public Health 2023; 68:1605994. [PMID: 37767017 PMCID: PMC10520216 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2023.1605994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective: To investigate the details of environmental contamination status by SARS-CoV-2 in a makeshift COVID-19 hospital. Methods: Environmental samples were collected from a makeshift hospital. The extent of contamination was assessed by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) for SARS-CoV-2 RNA from various samples. Results: There was a wide range of total collected samples contaminated with SARS-CoV-2 RNA, ranging from 8.47% to 100%. Results revealed that 70.00% of sewage from the bathroom and 48.19% of air samples were positive. The highest rate of contamination was found from the no-touch surfaces (73.07%) and the lowest from frequently touched surfaces (33.40%). The most contaminated objects were the top surfaces of patient cubic partitions (100%). The median Ct values among strongly positive samples were 33.38 (IQR, 31.69-35.07) and 33.24 (IQR, 31.33-34.34) for ORF1ab and N genes, respectively. SARS-CoV-2 relic RNA can be detected on indoor surfaces for up to 20 days. Conclusion: The findings show a higher prevalence and persistence in detecting the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in the makeshift COVID-19 hospital setting. The contamination mode of droplet deposition may be more common than contaminated touches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinyan Yang
- Department of Disease Prevention and Control, Hainan Hospital of People’s Liberation Army of China General Hospital, Sanya, China
| | - Dan Sun
- Department of Disease Prevention and Control, Hainan Hospital of People’s Liberation Army of China General Hospital, Sanya, China
| | - Tingting Xia
- Department of Disease Prevention and Control, Hainan Hospital of People’s Liberation Army of China General Hospital, Sanya, China
| | - Shi Shi
- Department of Disease Prevention and Control, Hainan Hospital of People’s Liberation Army of China General Hospital, Sanya, China
| | - Jijiang Suo
- Department of Disease Prevention and Control, Hainan Hospital of People’s Liberation Army of China General Hospital, Sanya, China
| | - Huihui Kuang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Hainan Hospital of People’s Liberation Army of China General Hospital, Sanya, China
| | - Nana Sun
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Hainan Hospital of People’s Liberation Army of China General Hospital, Sanya, China
| | - Hongyan Hu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Hainan Hospital of People’s Liberation Army of China General Hospital, Sanya, China
| | - Zhecheng Zheng
- Department of Health Economics Management, Hainan Hospital of People’s Liberation Army of China General Hospital, Sanya, China
| | - Yang Zhou
- Department of Health Economics Management, Hainan Hospital of People’s Liberation Army of China General Hospital, Sanya, China
| | - Xiaocui Li
- Department of Cardiology, Hainan Hospital of People’s Liberation Army of China General Hospital, Sanya, China
| | - Shaojuan Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Hainan Hospital of People’s Liberation Army of China General Hospital, Sanya, China
| | - Haiqiang Huang
- Department of Radiotherapy, Hainan Hospital of People’s Liberation Army of China General Hospital, Sanya, China
| | - Zhongqiang Yan
- Department of Disease Prevention and Control, The Second Medical Center of People’s Liberation Army of China General Hospital, Beijing, China
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16
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Chen XE, Zhao C, Luo Y, Tang T, Chen W. Contamination of SARS-CoV-2 RNA on personal protective equipment and environmental surfaces in nonpatient entry area of a Fangcang shelter hospital. Am J Ind Med 2023; 66:805-812. [PMID: 37394558 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the extent of contamination of personal protective equipment (PPE) and surfaces by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in the nonpatient entry area of a Fangcang shelter hospital, the medical staff accommodation area, and the staff transport bus. METHODS We collected 816 samples from the nonpatient entry area and floors in a Fangcang shelter hospital, medical staff accommodation area, and scheduled bus, and the five major types of PPE used from April 13 to May 18, 2022. SARS-CoV-2 ribonucleic acid (RNA) was detected by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS Overall, 22.2% of PPE samples were positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Boot covers and gowns were the most contaminated types of PPE. The positive PPE contamination rate of staff collecting respiratory specimens was significantly higher than that of the general-treatment staff group (35.8% vs. 12.2%) and cleaner group (35.8% vs. 26.4%), p < 0.01. In total, 27 of 265 (10.2%) environmental surface samples were positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA. The contamination-positive rates were 26.8% (22/82), 5.4% (4/74), and 0.9% (1/109) for contaminated, potentially contaminated, and clean zones, respectively. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was frequently detected on objects such as mobile phones, tables, computer keyboards and mice, and door handles. CONCLUSIONS SARS-CoV-2 RNA was widely distributed on high-touch surfaces and on PPE in the contaminated zone of the Fangcang shelter hospital, implying a potentially high infection risk for healthcare workers. Our findings emphasize the need to ensure adequate environmental cleaning, improve hand hygiene, and reduce the risk of infection. Additionally, prevention of self-contamination during PPE donning and doffing is complex and needs more research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue-E Chen
- Department of Nosocomial Infection Control, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - ChenHao Zhao
- Department of Neurology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - YeTao Luo
- Department of Nosocomial Infection Control, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Tang Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Nosocomial Infection Control, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Army Medical University, Chongqing, China
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Mortazavi H, Sarkhosh M, Najafpoor AA, Azizi S, Tabatabaee SS, Davoudi M, Miri HH, Kamika I. Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in the indoor air and surfaces of subway trains in Mashhad, Iran. Braz J Microbiol 2023; 54:1865-1873. [PMID: 37572180 PMCID: PMC10484835 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-023-01089-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Millions of passengers around the world are concerned with the possibility of SARS-CoV-2 contamination on public transportation. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the presence of SARS-CoV-2 virus in indoor air and subway surfaces in Mashhad. METHODS In this study, air and surface sampling were done at two times in the morning (7-8:30 a.m.) and evening (3:30-5 p.m.), simultaneously in two wagons for men and women in line 1 of Mashhad Metro in March 2021 to detect the virus and measure the concentration of particulate matter. Totally, 30 air and 30 metro samples were collected and examined by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). RESULTS The results showed that three and two cases in the air and surface samples were infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, respectively. There was a significant relationship between the mean concentration of suspended particles PM1 (particulate matter smaller than 1 μm) with PM2.5 (particulate matter smaller than 2.5 μm) and PM10 (particulate matter smaller than 10 μm) (p < 0. 05). There was also a significant relationship between the mean concentration of suspended particles PM2.5 and PM10. The results showed that the mean PM2.5 measured in the indoor air of the Mashhad metro wagon had a significant relationship with WHO and US EPA and national standards, and its value was higher than the standards (p < 0.05). The average particle concentrations of PM1, PM2.5, and PM10 were equal to 40.46, 42.61, and 48.31 μg/m3. CONCLUSION According to the results of the pollution detected in this study, COVID-19 may be transmitted by air and environmental surfaces. Our study emphasizes the need for continuous assessment of the presence of the virus in public transportation. Detection of viral RNA in subways indicates the necessity of adequate disinfection in public settings, strictness in disinfection methods, strengthening of educational activities for sanitary measures, physical spacing plan, and increasing ventilation of wagons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanieh Mortazavi
- Student Research Committee, Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Maryam Sarkhosh
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Ali Asghar Najafpoor
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Shohreh Azizi
- UNESCO-UNISA Africa Chair in Nanosciences and Nanotechnology, College of Graduate Studies, University of South Africa, Muckleneuk Ridge, PO Box 392, Pretoria, 0002 South Africa
- Nanosciences African Network (NANOAFNET), iThemba LABS-National Research Foundation, 1 Old Faure Road, Somerset West 7129, PO Box 722, Somerset West, Western Cape 7131 South Africa
| | - Seyed Saeed Tabatabaee
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Davoudi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hamid Heidarian Miri
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Infant Research Centre, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Ilunga Kamika
- Institute for Nanotechnology and Water Sustainability (iNanoWS), School of Science, College of Science, Engineering and Technology (CSET), University of South Africa, Florida Campus, Johannesburg, 1709 South Africa
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18
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Yao Y, Cui Y, Gao X, Qian Y, Hu B. Contamination of personal protective equipment and environmental surfaces in Fangcang shelter hospitals. Am J Infect Control 2023; 51:926-930. [PMID: 36435405 PMCID: PMC9683851 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2022.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fangcang shelter hospitals emerged as a new public health concept after COVID-19. Data regarding contamination of Fangcang shelter environments remains scarce. This study aims to investigate the extent of SARS-CoV-2 contamination on personal protective equipment and surfaces in Fangcang hospitals. METHODS Between March and May 2022, during wave of omicron variant, a prospective study was conducted in 2 Fangcang hospitals in Shanghai, China. Swabs of personal protective equipment worn and environmental surfaces of contaminated areas, doffing rooms, and potentially contaminated areas were collected. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction. If viral RNA was detected, sampling was repeated after cleaning and disinfection. RESULTS A total of 602 samples were collected. 13.3% of the personal protective equipment were contaminated. Positive rate was higher in the contaminated areas (48.4%) than in the doffing rooms (11.7%) and the potentially contaminated areas (0; P<.05). Contamination was highest in patient occupied areas (67.5%). After cleaning, samples taken at previously contaminated surfaces are all negative. CONCLUSIONS SARS-CoV-2 RNA contamination is prevalent in Fangcang hospitals and healthcare workers are under risk of infection. Potentially contaminated areas and surfaces after cleaning and disinfection are negative, underlying the importance of infection control policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumeng Yao
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yangwen Cui
- Department of Infection Control and Management, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaodong Gao
- Department of Infection Control and Management, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yiyi Qian
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Bijie Hu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Department of Infection Control and Management, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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19
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Zhou J, Singanayagam A, Goonawardane N, Moshe M, Sweeney FP, Sukhova K, Killingley B, Kalinova M, Mann AJ, Catchpole AP, Barer MR, Ferguson NM, Chiu C, Barclay WS. Viral emissions into the air and environment after SARS-CoV-2 human challenge: a phase 1, open label, first-in-human study. THE LANCET. MICROBE 2023; 4:e579-e590. [PMID: 37307844 PMCID: PMC10256269 DOI: 10.1016/s2666-5247(23)00101-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Effectively implementing strategies to curb SARS-CoV-2 transmission requires understanding who is contagious and when. Although viral load on upper respiratory swabs has commonly been used to infer contagiousness, measuring viral emissions might be more accurate to indicate the chance of onward transmission and identify likely routes. We aimed to correlate viral emissions, viral load in the upper respiratory tract, and symptoms, longitudinally, in participants who were experimentally infected with SARS-CoV-2. METHODS In this phase 1, open label, first-in-human SARS-CoV-2 experimental infection study at quarantine unit at the Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK, healthy adults aged 18-30 years who were unvaccinated for SARS-CoV-2, not previously known to have been infected with SARS-CoV-2, and seronegative at screening were recruited. Participants were inoculated with 10 50% tissue culture infectious dose of pre-alpha wild-type SARS-CoV-2 (Asp614Gly) by intranasal drops and remained in individual negative pressure rooms for a minimum of 14 days. Nose and throat swabs were collected daily. Emissions were collected daily from the air (using a Coriolis μ air sampler and directly into facemasks) and the surrounding environment (via surface and hand swabs). All samples were collected by researchers, and tested by using PCR, plaque assay, or lateral flow antigen test. Symptom scores were collected using self-reported symptom diaries three times daily. The study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04865237. FINDINGS Between March 6 and July 8, 2021, 36 participants (ten female and 26 male) were recruited and 18 (53%) of 34 participants became infected, resulting in protracted high viral loads in the nose and throat following a short incubation period, with mild-to-moderate symptoms. Two participants were excluded from the per-protocol analysis owing to seroconversion between screening and inoculation, identified post hoc. Viral RNA was detected in 63 (25%) of 252 Coriolis air samples from 16 participants, 109 (43%) of 252 mask samples from 17 participants, 67 (27%) of 252 hand swabs from 16 participants, and 371 (29%) of 1260 surface swabs from 18 participants. Viable SARS-CoV-2 was collected from breath captured in 16 masks and from 13 surfaces, including four small frequently touched surfaces and nine larger surfaces where airborne virus could deposit. Viral emissions correlated more strongly with viral load in nasal swabs than throat swabs. Two individuals emitted 86% of airborne virus, and the majority of airborne virus collected was released on 3 days. Individuals who reported the highest total symptom scores were not those who emitted most virus. Very few emissions occurred before the first reported symptom (7%) and hardly any before the first positive lateral flow antigen test (2%). INTERPRETATION After controlled experimental inoculation, the timing, extent, and routes of viral emissions was heterogeneous. We observed that a minority of participants were high airborne virus emitters, giving support to the notion of superspreading individuals or events. Our data implicates the nose as the most important source of emissions. Frequent self-testing coupled with isolation upon awareness of first symptoms could reduce onward transmissions. FUNDING UK Vaccine Taskforce of the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy of Her Majesty's Government.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhou
- Section of Virology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Anika Singanayagam
- Section of Adult Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Maya Moshe
- Section of Virology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Ksenia Sukhova
- Section of Virology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Ben Killingley
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University College London Hospital, London, UK
| | | | | | | | - Michael R Barer
- Department of Respiratory Sciences, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
| | - Neil M Ferguson
- Department of Infectious Disease, and MRC Centre for Global Infectious Disease Analysis, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Christopher Chiu
- Section of Adult Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Puthussery JV, Ghumra DP, McBrearty KR, Doherty BM, Sumlin BJ, Sarabandi A, Mandal AG, Shetty NJ, Gardiner WD, Magrecki JP, Brody DL, Esparza TJ, Bricker TL, Boon ACM, Yuede CM, Cirrito JR, Chakrabarty RK. Real-time environmental surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 aerosols. Nat Commun 2023; 14:3692. [PMID: 37429842 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-39419-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Real-time surveillance of airborne SARS-CoV-2 virus is a technological gap that has eluded the scientific community since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Offline air sampling techniques for SARS-CoV-2 detection suffer from longer turnaround times and require skilled labor. Here, we present a proof-of-concept pathogen Air Quality (pAQ) monitor for real-time (5 min time resolution) direct detection of SARS-CoV-2 aerosols. The system synergistically integrates a high flow (~1000 lpm) wet cyclone air sampler and a nanobody-based ultrasensitive micro-immunoelectrode biosensor. The wet cyclone showed comparable or better virus sampling performance than commercially available samplers. Laboratory experiments demonstrate a device sensitivity of 77-83% and a limit of detection of 7-35 viral RNA copies/m3 of air. Our pAQ monitor is suited for point-of-need surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 variants in indoor environments and can be adapted for multiplexed detection of other respiratory pathogens of interest. Widespread adoption of such technology could assist public health officials with implementing rapid disease control measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph V Puthussery
- Center for Aerosol Science and Engineering, Department of Energy, Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Dishit P Ghumra
- Center for Aerosol Science and Engineering, Department of Energy, Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Kevin R McBrearty
- Department of Neurology, Hope Center for Neurological Disease, Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Brookelyn M Doherty
- Department of Neurology, Hope Center for Neurological Disease, Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Benjamin J Sumlin
- Center for Aerosol Science and Engineering, Department of Energy, Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Amirhossein Sarabandi
- Center for Aerosol Science and Engineering, Department of Energy, Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
| | - Anushka Garg Mandal
- Center for Aerosol Science and Engineering, Department of Energy, Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, 400076, India
| | - Nishit J Shetty
- Center for Aerosol Science and Engineering, Department of Energy, Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA
- Civil and Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
| | - Woodrow D Gardiner
- Department of Neurology, Hope Center for Neurological Disease, Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Jordan P Magrecki
- Department of Neurology, Hope Center for Neurological Disease, Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - David L Brody
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Department of Neurology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Thomas J Esparza
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Traci L Bricker
- Department of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Adrianus C M Boon
- Department of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
- Departments Molecular Microbiology, and Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Carla M Yuede
- Department of Psychiatry, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
| | - John R Cirrito
- Department of Neurology, Hope Center for Neurological Disease, Knight Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA.
| | - Rajan K Chakrabarty
- Center for Aerosol Science and Engineering, Department of Energy, Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, 63130, USA.
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21
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Martínez-Espinosa E, Carvajal-Mariscal I. Virus-laden droplet nuclei in vortical structures associated with recirculation zones in indoor environments: A possible airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2. ENVIRONMENTAL ADVANCES 2023; 12:100376. [PMID: 37193349 PMCID: PMC10163794 DOI: 10.1016/j.envadv.2023.100376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Droplet nuclei dispersion patterns in indoor environments are reviewed from a physics view to explore the possibility of airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2. This review analyzes works on particle dispersion patterns and their concentration in vortical structures in different indoor environments. Numerical simulations and experiments reveal the formation of the buildings' recirculation zones and vortex flow regions by flow separation, airflow interaction around objects, internal dispersion of airflow, or thermal plume. These vortical structures showed high particle concentration because particles are trapped for long periods. Then a hypothesis is proposed to explain why some medical studies detect the presence of SARS-CoV-2 and others do not detect the virus. The hypothesis proposes that airborne transmission is possible if virus-laden droplet nuclei are trapped in vortical structures associated with recirculation zones. This hypothesis is reinforced by a numerical study in a restaurant that presented possible evidence of airborne transmission by a large recirculating air zone. Furthermore, a medical study in a hospital is discussed from a physical view for identifying the formation of recirculation zones and their relation with positive tests for viruses. The observations show air sampling site located in this vortical structure is positive for the SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Therefore, the formation of vortical structures associated with recirculation zones should be avoided to minimize the possibility of airborne transmission. This work tries to understand the complex phenomenon of airborne transmission as a way in the prevention of transmission of infectious diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Martínez-Espinosa
- Industrial and Environmental Processes Department, Instituto de Ingeniería, UNAM, Ciudad Universitaria, Mexico City 04510, México
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22
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Kwiatkowska R, Yaxley N, Moore G, Bennett A, Donati M, Love N, Vivancos R, Hickman M, Ready DR. Environmental sampling for SARS-CoV-2 in long term care facilities: lessons from a pilot study. Wellcome Open Res 2023; 6:235. [PMID: 38406228 PMCID: PMC10891430 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.17047.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic has highlighted the risk of infection in long-term care facilities (LTCF) and the vulnerability of residents to severe outcomes. Environmental surveillance may help detect pathogens early and inform Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures in these settings. Methods: Upon notification of SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks, LTCF within a local authority in South West England were approached to take part in this pilot study. Investigators visited to swab common touch-points and elevated 'non-touch' surfaces (>1.5m above ground level) and samples were analysed for presence of SARS-CoV-2 genetic material (RNA). Data were collected regarding LTCF infrastructure, staff behaviours, clinical and epidemiological risk factors for infection (staff and residents), and IPC measures. Criteria for success were: recruitment of three LTCF; detection of SARS-COV-2 RNA; variation in proportion of SARS-CoV-2 positive surfaces by sampling zone; and collection of clinical and epidemiological data for context. Results: Three LTCFs were recruited, ranging in size and resident demographics. Outbreaks lasted 63, 50 and 30 days with resident attack rates of 53%, 40% and 8%, respectively. The proportion of sample sites on which SARS-CoV-2 was detected was highest in rooms occupied by infected residents and varied elsewhere in the LTCF, with low levels in a facility implementing enhanced IPC measures. The heterogeneity of settings and difficulty obtaining data made it unfeasible to assess association between environmental contamination and infection. A greater proportion of elevated surfaces tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA than common touch-points. Conclusions: SARS-CoV-2 RNA can be detected in a variety of LTCF outbreak settings, both on common-touch items and in elevated sites out of reach. This suggests that further work is justified, to assess feasibility and utility of environmental sampling for infection surveillance in LTCF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Kwiatkowska
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Field Service, Health Protection Operations, UKHSA, Bristol, UK
| | - Nicola Yaxley
- Biosafety, Air and Water Microbiology Group, UKHSA, Porton Down, Salisbury, UK
| | - Ginny Moore
- Biosafety, Air and Water Microbiology Group, UKHSA, Porton Down, Salisbury, UK
| | - Allan Bennett
- Biosafety, Air and Water Microbiology Group, UKHSA, Porton Down, Salisbury, UK
| | - Matthew Donati
- Severn Infection Sciences, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
- UKHSA Specialised Microbiology and Laboratories,, South West Regional Laboratory, Bristol, UK
| | - Nicola Love
- Field Service, Health Protection Operations, UKHSA, Newcastle, UK
| | - Roberto Vivancos
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Gastrointestinal Infections, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Field Service, Health Protection Operations, UKHSA, Liverpool, UK
| | - Matthew Hickman
- Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Derren R Ready
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Behavioural Science and Evaluation, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Field Service, Health Protection Operations, UKHSA, Bristol, UK
- Eastman Dental Institute, University College London, London, UK
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23
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Maltezou HC, Papamichalopoulos N, Horefti E, Tseroni M, Karapanou A, Gamaletsou MN, Veneti L, Ioannidis A, Panagiotou M, Dimitroulia E, Vasilogiannakopoulos A, Angelakis E, Chatzipanagiotou S, Sipsas NV. Effectiveness of a Self-Decontaminating Coating Containing Usnic Acid in Reducing Environmental Microbial Load in Tertiary-Care Hospitals. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:ijerph20085434. [PMID: 37107716 PMCID: PMC10138069 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20085434] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
Surfaces have been implicated in the transmission of pathogens in hospitals. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of an usnic-acid-containing self-decontaminating coating in reducing microbial surface contamination in tertiary-care hospitals. Samples were collected from surfaces 9 days before coating application, and 3, 10, and 21 days after its application (phases 1, 2, 3, and 4, respectively). Samples were tested for bacteria, fungi, and SARS-CoV2. In phase 1, 53/69 (76.8%) samples tested positive for bacteria, 9/69 (13.0%) for fungi, and 10/139 (7.2%) for SARS-CoV-2. In phase 2, 4/69 (5.8%) samples tested positive for bacteria, while 69 and 139 samples were negative for fungi and SARS-CoV-2, respectively. In phase 3, 3/69 (4.3%) samples were positive for bacteria, 1/139 (0.7%) samples tested positive for SARS-CoV-2, while 69 samples were negative for fungi. In phase 4, 1/69 (1.4%) tested positive for bacteria, while no fungus or SARS-CoV-2 were detected. After the coating was applied, the bacterial load was reduced by 87% in phase 2 (RR = 0.132; 95% CI: 0.108-0.162); 99% in phase 3 (RR = 0.006; 95% CI: 0.003-0.015); and 100% in phase 4 (RR = 0.001; 95% CI: 0.000-0.009). These data indicate that the usnic-acid-containing coating was effective in eliminating bacterial, fungal, and SARS-CoV-2 contamination on surfaces in hospitals.Our findings support the benefit ofan usnic-acid-containing coating in reducing the microbial load on healthcare surfaces.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena C. Maltezou
- Directorate of Research, Studies, and Documentation, National Public Health Organization, 15123 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence:
| | - Nikolaos Papamichalopoulos
- Department of Medical Biopathology, Aeginition Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 72–74 Vas. Sophias Ave, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Elina Horefti
- Diagnostic Department and Public Health Laboratories, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, 127 Vas. Sophias Ave, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Tseroni
- Directorate of Epidemiological Surveillance for Infectious Diseases, National Public Health Organization, 15123 Athens, Greece
| | - Amalia Karapanou
- Infection Control Committee, Laiko General Hospital, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Maria N. Gamaletsou
- Department of Pathophysiology, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | | | - Anastasios Ioannidis
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Peloponnese, 22100 Tripoli, Greece
| | - Marina Panagiotou
- Infection Control Committee, Henry Dunant Hospital Center, 11526 Athens, Greece
| | | | | | - Emmanouil Angelakis
- Diagnostic Department and Public Health Laboratories, Hellenic Pasteur Institute, 127 Vas. Sophias Ave, 11521 Athens, Greece
| | - Stylianos Chatzipanagiotou
- Department of Medical Biopathology, Aeginition Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 72–74 Vas. Sophias Ave, 11528 Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos V. Sipsas
- Department of Pathophysiology, Laiko General Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece
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24
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Derqui N, Koycheva A, Zhou J, Pillay TD, Crone MA, Hakki S, Fenn J, Kundu R, Varro R, Conibear E, Madon KJ, Barnett JL, Houston H, Singanayagam A, Narean JS, Tolosa-Wright MR, Mosscrop L, Rosadas C, Watber P, Anderson C, Parker E, Freemont PS, Ferguson NM, Zambon M, McClure MO, Tedder R, Barclay WS, Dunning J, Taylor GP, Lalvani A, Cutajar J, Quinn V, Hammett S, McDermott E, Luca C, Timcang K, Samuel J, Bremang S, Evetts S, Wang L, Nevin S, Davies M, Tejpal C, Essoussi M, Ketkar AV, Miserocchi G, Catchpole H, Badhan A, Dustan S, Day Weber IJ, Marchesin F, Whitfield MG, Poh J, Kondratiuk A. Risk factors and vectors for SARS-CoV-2 household transmission: a prospective, longitudinal cohort study. THE LANCET MICROBE 2023:S2666-5247(23)00069-1. [PMID: 37031689 PMCID: PMC10132910 DOI: 10.1016/s2666-5247(23)00069-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 04/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite circumstantial evidence for aerosol and fomite spread of SARS-CoV-2, empirical data linking either pathway with transmission are scarce. Here we aimed to assess whether the presence of SARS-CoV-2 on frequently-touched surfaces and residents' hands was a predictor of SARS-CoV-2 household transmission. METHODS In this longitudinal cohort study, during the pre-alpha (September to December, 2020) and alpha (B.1.1.7; December, 2020, to April, 2021) SARS-CoV-2 variant waves, we prospectively recruited contacts from households exposed to newly diagnosed COVID-19 primary cases, in London, UK. To maximally capture transmission events, contacts were recruited regardless of symptom status and serially tested for SARS-CoV-2 infection by RT-PCR on upper respiratory tract (URT) samples and, in a subcohort, by serial serology. Contacts' hands, primary cases' hands, and frequently-touched surface-samples from communal areas were tested for SARS-CoV-2 RNA. SARS-CoV-2 URT isolates from 25 primary case-contact pairs underwent whole-genome sequencing (WGS). FINDINGS From Aug 1, 2020, until March 31, 2021, 620 contacts of PCR-confirmed SARS-CoV-2-infected primary cases were recruited. 414 household contacts (from 279 households) with available serial URT PCR results were analysed in the full household contacts' cohort, and of those, 134 contacts with available longitudinal serology data and not vaccinated pre-enrolment were analysed in the serology subcohort. Household infection rate was 28·4% (95% CI 20·8-37·5) for pre-alpha-exposed contacts and 51·8% (42·5-61·0) for alpha-exposed contacts (p=0·0047). Primary cases' URT RNA viral load did not correlate with transmission, but was associated with detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA on their hands (p=0·031). SARS-CoV-2 detected on primary cases' hands, in turn, predicted contacts' risk of infection (adjusted relative risk [aRR]=1·70 [95% CI 1·24-2·31]), as did SARS-CoV-2 RNA presence on household surfaces (aRR=1·66 [1·09-2·55]) and contacts' hands (aRR=2·06 [1·57-2·69]). In six contacts with an initial negative URT PCR result, hand-swab (n=3) and household surface-swab (n=3) PCR positivity preceded URT PCR positivity. WGS corroborated household transmission. INTERPRETATION Presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA on primary cases' and contacts' hands and on frequently-touched household surfaces associates with transmission, identifying these as potential vectors for spread in households. FUNDING National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Respiratory Infections, Medical Research Council.
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25
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Groma V, Kugler S, Farkas Á, Füri P, Madas B, Nagy A, Erdélyi T, Horváth A, Müller V, Szántó-Egész R, Micsinai A, Gálffy G, Osán J. Size distribution and relationship of airborne SARS-CoV-2 RNA to indoor aerosol in hospital ward environments. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3566. [PMID: 36864124 PMCID: PMC9980870 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-30702-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Aerosol particles proved to play a key role in airborne transmission of SARS-CoV-2 viruses. Therefore, their size-fractionated collection and analysis is invaluable. However, aerosol sampling in COVID departments is not straightforward, especially in the sub-500-nm size range. In this study, particle number concentrations were measured with high temporal resolution using an optical particle counter, and several 8 h daytime sample sets were collected simultaneously on gelatin filters with cascade impactors in two different hospital wards during both alpha and delta variants of concern periods. Due to the large number (152) of size-fractionated samples, SARS-CoV-2 RNA copies could be statistically analyzed over a wide range of aerosol particle diameters (70-10 µm). Our results revealed that SARS-CoV-2 RNA is most likely to exist in particles with 0.5-4 µm aerodynamic diameter, but also in ultrafine particles. Correlation analysis of particulate matter (PM) and RNA copies highlighted the importance of indoor medical activity. It was found that the daily maximum increment of PM mass concentration correlated the most with the number concentration of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the corresponding size fractions. Our results suggest that particle resuspension from surrounding surfaces is an important source of SARS-CoV-2 RNA present in the air of hospital rooms.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Groma
- Environmental Physics Department, Centre for Energy Research, Budapest, 1121, Hungary
| | - Sz Kugler
- Environmental Physics Department, Centre for Energy Research, Budapest, 1121, Hungary
| | - Á Farkas
- Environmental Physics Department, Centre for Energy Research, Budapest, 1121, Hungary
| | - P Füri
- Environmental Physics Department, Centre for Energy Research, Budapest, 1121, Hungary
| | - B Madas
- Environmental Physics Department, Centre for Energy Research, Budapest, 1121, Hungary
| | - A Nagy
- Department of Applied and Nonlinear Optics, Wigner Research Centre for Physics, Budapest, 1121, Hungary
| | - T Erdélyi
- Department of Pulmonology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, 1085, Hungary
| | - A Horváth
- Department of Pulmonology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, 1085, Hungary
- Pest County Pulmonology Hospital, Törökbálint, 2045, Hungary
| | - V Müller
- Department of Pulmonology, Semmelweis University, Budapest, 1085, Hungary
| | | | | | - G Gálffy
- Pest County Pulmonology Hospital, Törökbálint, 2045, Hungary
| | - J Osán
- Environmental Physics Department, Centre for Energy Research, Budapest, 1121, Hungary.
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26
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Loh MM, Yaxley N, Moore G, Holmes D, Todd S, Smith A, Macdonald E, Semple S, Cherrie M, Patel M, Hamill R, Leckie A, Dancer SJ, Cherrie JW. Measurement of SARS-CoV-2 in air and on surfaces in Scottish hospitals. J Hosp Infect 2023; 133:1-7. [PMID: 36473553 PMCID: PMC9721166 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2022.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are still uncertainties in our knowledge of the amount of SARS-CoV-2 virus present in the environment - where it can be found, and potential exposure determinants - limiting our ability to effectively model and compare interventions for risk management. AIM This study measured SARS-CoV-2 in three hospitals in Scotland on surfaces and in air, alongside ventilation and patient care activities. METHODS Air sampling at 200 L/min for 20 min and surface sampling were performed in two wards designated to treat COVID-19-positive patients and two non-COVID-19 wards across three hospitals in November and December 2020. FINDINGS Detectable samples of SARS-CoV-2 were found in COVID-19 treatment wards but not in non-COVID-19 wards. Most samples were below assay detection limits, but maximum concentrations reached 1.7×103 genomic copies/m3 in air and 1.9×104 copies per surface swab (3.2×102 copies/cm2 for surface loading). The estimated geometric mean air concentration (geometric standard deviation) across all hospitals was 0.41 (71) genomic copies/m3 and the corresponding values for surface contamination were 2.9 (29) copies/swab. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was found in non-patient areas (patient/visitor waiting rooms and personal protective equipment changing areas) associated with COVID-19 treatment wards. CONCLUSION Non-patient areas of the hospital may pose risks for infection transmission and further attention should be paid to these areas. Standardization of sampling methods will improve understanding of levels of environmental contamination. The pandemic has demonstrated a need to review and act upon the challenges of older hospital buildings meeting current ventilation guidance.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Loh
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - N Yaxley
- UK Health Security Agency, Porton Down, UK
| | - G Moore
- UK Health Security Agency, Porton Down, UK
| | - D Holmes
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Edinburgh, UK
| | - S Todd
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Edinburgh, UK
| | - A Smith
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - S Semple
- Institute for Social Marketing & Health, University of Stirling, Stirling, UK
| | - M Cherrie
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | | | | | - S J Dancer
- NHS Lanarkshire, UK; Edinburgh Napier University, UK
| | - J W Cherrie
- Institute of Occupational Medicine, Edinburgh, UK; Heriot Watt University, Edinburgh, UK
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27
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Shimizu A, Kitazume S. Nosocomial transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from infected children to uninfected caregivers: A retrospective cohort study in a Japanese tertiary children's hospital. J Infect Chemother 2023; 29:281-283. [PMID: 36470374 PMCID: PMC9719842 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiac.2022.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The transmission rate of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is unclear when caregivers accompany pediatric COVID-19 patients in the same isolation room in a hospital setting. AIM We investigated SARS-CoV-2 transmission from infected children to caregivers at our hospital. METHODS This retrospective cohort study included 34 discordant pairs of patients admitted between September 2020 and April 2022. FINDINGS The median ages of the children and caregivers were 3.7 years (interquartile range [IQR]: 1.6-8.1) and 33.1 years (IQR: 28.3-43.4), respectively. Of the 34 caregivers, 31 were mothers, two were fathers, and one was a relative. Sixteen caregivers received at least two doses of the mRNA vaccine. The mean duration of the hospital stays was 7.7 ± 4.1 days (range: 3-19). Two unvaccinated caregivers developed COVID-19 after admission; the onset was within 48 h after admission. It is likely that they had been infected in their household prior to admission, since the incubation period for COVID-19 is usually >2 days. CONCLUSIONS Nosocomial SARS-CoV-2 transmission from infected children to caregivers was not confirmed in this study. The combination of negative-pressure rooms, vaccinations, and infection-control bundles appears to be effective at preventing SARS-CoV-2 transmission. It is acceptable to allow caregivers to accompany pediatric COVID-19 patients in a hospital ward if they can comply with basic infection control measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akihiko Shimizu
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Gunma Children's Medical Center, Shibukawa, Japan.
| | - Sachiko Kitazume
- Department of Nursing, Gunma Children's Medical Center, Shibukawa, Japan
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28
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Otter JA, Zhou J, Price JR, Reeves L, Zhu N, Randell P, Sriskandan S, Barclay WS, Holmes AH. SARS-CoV-2 surface and air contamination in an acute healthcare setting during the first and second pandemic waves. J Hosp Infect 2023; 132:36-45. [PMID: 36435307 PMCID: PMC9683853 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2022.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Surfaces and air in healthcare facilities can be contaminated with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2). Previously, the authors identified SARS-CoV-2 RNA on surfaces and air in their hospital during the first wave of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic (April 2020). AIM To explore whether the profile of SARS-CoV-2 surface and air contamination had changed between April 2020 and January 2021. METHODS This was a prospective, cross-sectional, observational study in a multi-site London hospital. In January 2021, surface and air samples were collected from comparable areas to those sampled in April 2020, comprising six clinical areas and a public area. SARS-CoV-2 was detected using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and viral culture. Sampling was also undertaken in two wards with natural ventilation alone. The ability of the prevalent variants at the time of the study to survive on dry surfaces was evaluated. FINDINGS No viable virus was recovered from surfaces or air. Five percent (N=14) of 270 surface samples and 4% (N=1) of 27 air samples were positive for SARS-CoV-2, which was significantly lower than in April 2020 [52% (N=114) of 218 surface samples and 48% (N=13) of 27 air samples (P<0.001, Fisher's exact test)]. There was no clear difference in the proportion of surface and air samples positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA based on the type of ventilation in the ward. All variants tested survived on dry surfaces for >72 h, with a <3-log10 reduction in viable count. CONCLUSION This study suggests that enhanced infection prevention measures have reduced the burden of SARS-CoV-2 RNA on surfaces and air in healthcare facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Otter
- National Institute for Healthcare Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare-associated Infection and Antimicrobial Resistance, Imperial College London & Public Health England, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK; Guy's and St. Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | - J Zhou
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - J R Price
- National Institute for Healthcare Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare-associated Infection and Antimicrobial Resistance, Imperial College London & Public Health England, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital, London, UK
| | - L Reeves
- National Institute for Healthcare Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare-associated Infection and Antimicrobial Resistance, Imperial College London & Public Health England, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - N Zhu
- National Institute for Healthcare Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare-associated Infection and Antimicrobial Resistance, Imperial College London & Public Health England, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
| | - P Randell
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital, London, UK
| | - S Sriskandan
- National Institute for Healthcare Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare-associated Infection and Antimicrobial Resistance, Imperial College London & Public Health England, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital, London, UK
| | - W S Barclay
- Department of Infectious Disease, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - A H Holmes
- National Institute for Healthcare Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare-associated Infection and Antimicrobial Resistance, Imperial College London & Public Health England, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK; Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, St. Mary's Hospital, London, UK
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SARS-CoV-2 viability and viral RNA persistence on microbiological agar plates. J Hosp Infect 2023; 132:140-142. [PMID: 36493967 PMCID: PMC9722616 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2022.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Cox J, Christensen B, Burton N, Dunn KH, Finnegan M, Ruess A, Estill C. Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in the workplace: Key findings from a rapid review of the literature. AEROSOL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR AEROSOL RESEARCH 2023; 57:233-254. [PMID: 37213938 PMCID: PMC10193509 DOI: 10.1080/02786826.2023.2166394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the primary route of transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus was not well understood. Research gathered from other respiratory infectious diseases, including other coronaviruses, was the basis for the initial perceptions for transmission of SARS-CoV-2. To better understand transmission of SARS-CoV-2, a rapid literature review was conducted from literature generated March 19, 2020, through September 23, 2021. 18,616 unique results were identified from literature databases and screened. Of these, 279 key articles were reviewed and abstracted covering critical topics such as environmental/workplace monitoring, sampling and analytical method evaluation, and the ability of the virus to remain intact and infectious during sampling. This paper describes the results of the rapid literature review, which evaluated pathways that contribute to transmission as well as the strengths and limitations of current sampling approaches. This review also evaluates how different factors, including environmental conditions and surface characteristics, could impact the transmission potential of SARS-CoV-2. A continual rapid review in the midst of a pandemic proved particularly useful for quickly understanding the transmission parameters of the virus and enabled us to comprehensively assess literature, respond to workplace questions, and evaluate our understanding as the science evolved. Air and surface sampling with the accompanying analytical methods were not generally effective in recovering SARS-CoV-2 viable virus or RNA in many likely contaminated environments. In light of these findings, the development of validated sampling and analysis methods is critical for determining worker exposure to SARS-CoV-2 and to assess the impact of mitigation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennie Cox
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Brian Christensen
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Nancy Burton
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Kevin H. Dunn
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | | | - Ana Ruess
- Gryphon Scientific, Takoma Park, MD, USA
| | - Cherie Estill
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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Kuhlmeier E, Chan T, Agüí CV, Willi B, Wolfensberger A, Beisel C, Topolsky I, Beerenwinkel N, Stadler T, Jones S, Tyson G, Hosie MJ, Reitt K, Hüttl J, Meli ML, Hofmann-Lehmann R. Detection and Molecular Characterization of the SARS-CoV-2 Delta Variant and the Specific Immune Response in Companion Animals in Switzerland. Viruses 2023; 15:245. [PMID: 36680285 PMCID: PMC9864232 DOI: 10.3390/v15010245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
In human beings, there are five reported variants of concern of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus type 2 (SARS-CoV-2). However, in contrast to human beings, descriptions of infections of animals with specific variants are still rare. The aim of this study is to systematically investigate SARS-CoV-2 infections in companion animals in close contact with SARS-CoV-2-positive owners ("COVID-19 households") with a focus on the Delta variant. Samples, obtained from companion animals and their owners were analyzed using a real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and next-generation sequencing (NGS). Animals were also tested for antibodies and neutralizing activity against SARS-CoV-2. Eleven cats and three dogs in nine COVID-19-positive households were RT-qPCR and/or serologically positive for the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant. For seven animals, the genetic sequence could be determined. The animals were infected by one of the pangolin lineages B.1.617.2, AY.4, AY.43 and AY.129 and between zero and three single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were detected between the viral genomes of animals and their owners, indicating within-household transmission between animal and owner and in multi-pet households also between the animals. NGS data identified SNPs that occur at a higher frequency in the viral sequences of companion animals than in viral sequences of humans, as well as SNPs, which were exclusively found in the animals investigated in the current study and not in their owners. In conclusion, our study is the first to describe the SARS-CoV-2 Delta variant transmission to animals in Switzerland and provides the first-ever description of Delta-variant pangolin lineages AY.129 and AY.4 in animals. Our results reinforce the need of a One Health approach in the monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 in animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn Kuhlmeier
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tatjana Chan
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Cecilia Valenzuela Agüí
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Willi
- Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Aline Wolfensberger
- Department of Infectious Diseases and Hospital Epidemiology, University Hospital Zurich, University of Zurich, Rämistrasse 100, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christian Beisel
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Ivan Topolsky
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Niko Beerenwinkel
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tanja Stadler
- Department of Biosystems Science and Engineering, ETH Zurich, Mattenstrasse 26, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
- SIB Swiss Institute of Bioinformatics, 4058 Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Sarah Jones
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bearsden Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bearsden Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Grace Tyson
- School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bearsden Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Margaret J. Hosie
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Bearsden Road, Glasgow G61 1QH, UK
| | - Katja Reitt
- Center for Laboratory Medicine, Veterinary Diagnostic Services, Frohbergstrasse 3, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Julia Hüttl
- Center for Laboratory Medicine, Veterinary Diagnostic Services, Frohbergstrasse 3, 9001 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Marina L. Meli
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Regina Hofmann-Lehmann
- Clinical Laboratory, Department of Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Center for Clinical Studies, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
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Muacevic A, Adler JR, Afzal Z, Tucker S, Lucas-Evans R, Dayala A, Mlangeni D. Environmental Contamination With SARS-CoV-2 in a Hospital Setting. Cureus 2023; 15:e34136. [PMID: 36843686 PMCID: PMC9948512 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.34136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/24/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is a global concern and has changed the way we practice medicine in acute hospital settings. This is particularly true with regard to patient triage, patient risk assessment, use of personal protective equipment, and environmental disinfection. Transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is primarily through inhalation of respiratory droplets generated through talking, coughing, or sneezing. There is, however, a potential risk that respiratory droplets settling on inanimate surfaces and objects in the hospital environment could provide a reservoir for nosocomial infections in patients and pose a healthcare risk to medical staff. Indeed, there have been previous reports of healthcare-associated outbreaks in hospitals. Several authors have argued that the risk of transmission via fomites may be insignificant. It is, however, not clear what proportion of SARS-CoV-2 infections are attributable to direct contact with fomites; a few reports have indicated possible transmission via this route. Environmental contamination with SARS-CoV-2 in healthcare institutions has been shown to vary according to the function or service provided by a unit or department. Information that identifies hospital areas that have a propensity for higher environmental burden may improve the practice of infection control and environmental cleaning and decontamination in healthcare institutions. This study aimed to investigate environmental SARS-CoV-2 contamination in the clinical areas of patients with COVID-19 infection. Methodology We conducted a cross-sectional study performing swabbing of frequently touched surfaces, equipment, and ventilation ducts in five specific clinical areas of Peterborough City Hospital which is part of the North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust. The five clinical areas that were chosen for swabbing were the Emergency Department (ED), Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Isolation Ward, Respiratory Ward, and a Gastroenterology Ward that was serving as a receiving ward at the height of the second COVID-19 infection wave in the United Kingdom. Surfaces to be swabbed were divided into the patient zone, doctor zone, and nursing zone. Swabs from the chosen surfaces were collected on two consecutive days. A total of 158 surface swabs were collected during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Results The most contaminated clinical areas were the three receiving wards where 12% (11/96) of the swabs were positive. Inside the patient rooms, these surfaces included bed rails and controls, bedside tables, television screens, remote control units, and the room ventilation system. Outside the patient room, these surfaces included mobile computers and computer desk surfaces in the doctors' offices. All swabs taken from the ED and ICU were found to be negative. Conclusions Our study confirms the potential infection risks posed by environmental contamination with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This highlights the importance of adequate environmental cleaning for proper infection control and prevention in healthcare settings.
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Zhong B, Gao H, Ding L, Wang Y. A Blockchain-Based Life-Cycle Environmental Management Framework for Hospitals in the COVID-19 Context. ENGINEERING (BEIJING, CHINA) 2023; 20:208-221. [PMID: 36245898 PMCID: PMC9540700 DOI: 10.1016/j.eng.2022.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) emergency, many hospitals were built or renovated around the world to meet the challenges posed by the rising number of infected cases. Environmental management in the hospital life cycle is vital in preventing nosocomial infection and includes many infection control procedures. In certain urgent situations, a hospital must be completed quickly, and work process approval and supervision must therefore be accelerated. Thus, many works cannot be checked in detail. This results in a lack of work liability control and increases the difficulty of ensuring the fulfillment of key infection prevention measures. This study investigates how blockchain technology can transform the work quality inspection workflow to assist in nosocomial infection control under a fast delivery requirement. A blockchain-based life-cycle environmental management framework is proposed to track the fulfillment of crucial infection control measures in the design, construction, and operation stages of hospitals. The proposed framework allows for work quality checking after the work is completed, when some work cannot be checked on time. Illustrative use cases are selected to demonstrate the capabilities of the developed solution. This study provides new insights into applying blockchain technology to address the challenge of environmental management brought by rapid delivery requirements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Botao Zhong
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Digital Construction, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
- School of Civil and Hydraulic Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Han Gao
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Digital Construction, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
- School of Civil and Hydraulic Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
- Department of Civil and Building Systems, Technische Universität Berlin, Berlin 13156, Germany
| | - Lieyun Ding
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Digital Construction, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
- School of Civil and Hydraulic Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Yuhang Wang
- National Center of Technology Innovation for Digital Construction, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
- School of Civil and Hydraulic Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
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Kitagawa H, Nomura T, Kaiki Y, Kakimoto M, Nazmul T, Omori K, Shigemoto N, Sakaguchi T, Ohge H. Viable SARS-CoV-2 detected in the air of hospital rooms of patients with COVID-19 with an early infection. Int J Infect Dis 2023; 126:73-78. [PMID: 36356797 PMCID: PMC9640214 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijid.2022.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study assessed the concentration of SARS-CoV-2 in the air of hospital rooms occupied by patients with COVID-19 who had viable SARS-CoV-2 in nasopharyngeal (NP) samples in early infection. METHODS Between July and October 2021, NP swabs were collected from 20 patients with early SARS-CoV-2 infection admitted to a tertiary hospital in Japan. Air samples were collected from their rooms, tested for SARS-CoV-2 RNA, and cultured to determine potential infectivity. RESULTS The NP swab samples of 18 patients were positive for viable SARS-CoV-2 (median concentration: 4.0 × 105 tissue culture infectious dose 50/ml). In the air samples, viral RNA (median concentration: 1.1 × 105 copies/m3) was detected in 12/18 (67%) patients, and viable virus (median concentration: 8.9 × 102 tissue culture infectious dose 50/m3) was detected in 5/18 (28%) patients. The median time between illness onset and sampling was 3 days. The RNA concentration was significantly higher in samples wherein viable SARS-CoV-2 was detected than in samples in which viable virus was not detected (P-value = 0.027). CONCLUSION Viable SARS-CoV-2 can be detected in the air surrounding patients with early SARS-CoV-2 infection. Health care workers should pay attention to infection control when caring for patients with early SARS-CoV-2 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroki Kitagawa
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan,Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan,Corresponding author: Hiroki Kitagawa, Department of Infectious Diseases, Hiroshima University Hospital, Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minami-ku, Hiroshima 734-8551, Japan
| | - Toshihito Nomura
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan,Department of Virology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yuki Kaiki
- Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Masaki Kakimoto
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Tanuza Nazmul
- Department of Virology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Keitaro Omori
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Norifumi Shigemoto
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan,Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan,Translational Research Center, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Takemasa Sakaguchi
- Department of Virology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Hiroki Ohge
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Hiroshima University Hospital, Hiroshima, Japan
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35
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Tedeschini E, Pasqualini S, Emiliani C, Marini E, Valecchi A, Laoreti C, Ministrini S, Camilloni B, Castronari R, Patoia L, Merante F, Baglioni S, De Robertis E, Pirro M, Mencacci A, Pasqualini L. Monitoring of indoor bioaerosol for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in different hospital settings. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1169073. [PMID: 37151587 PMCID: PMC10157290 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1169073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Spore Trap is an environmental detection technology, already used in the field of allergology to monitor the presence and composition of potentially inspirable airborne micronic bioparticulate. This device is potentially suitable for environmental monitoring of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in hospital, as well as in other high-risk closed environments. The aim of the present study is to investigate the accuracy of the Spore Trap system in detecting SARS-CoV-2 in indoor bioaerosol of hospital rooms. Methods The Spore Trap was placed in hospital rooms hosting patients with documented SARS-CoV-2 infection (n = 36) or, as a negative control, in rooms where patients with documented negativity to a Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction molecular test for SARS-CoV-2 were admitted (n = 10). The monitoring of the bioaerosol was carried on for 24 h. Collected samples were analyzed by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Results The estimated sensitivity of the Spore Trap device for detecting SARS-CoV-2 in an indoor environment is 69.4% (95% C.I. 54.3-84.4%), with a specificity of 100%. Conclusion The Spore Trap technology is effective in detecting airborne SARS-CoV-2 virus with excellent specificity and high sensitivity, when compared to previous reports. The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic scenario has suggested that indoor air quality control will be a priority in future public health management and will certainly need to include an environmental bio-investigation protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Tedeschini
- Dipartimento di Scienze Agrarie, Alimentari e Ambientali, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Stefania Pasqualini
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Biologia e Biotecnologie, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Carla Emiliani
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Biologia e Biotecnologie, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Ettore Marini
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Alessandro Valecchi
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Chiara Laoreti
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Stefano Ministrini
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Stefano Ministrini
| | - Barbara Camilloni
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Roberto Castronari
- Dipartimento di Medicina e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Lucio Patoia
- Ospedale S.G. Battista – Azienda Unità Sanitaria Umbria 2, Foligno, Italy
| | - Francesco Merante
- Ospedale S.G. Battista – Azienda Unità Sanitaria Umbria 2, Foligno, Italy
| | - Stefano Baglioni
- S.C. Pneumologia, Ospedale Santa Maria della Misericordia, Azienda Ospedaliera di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Edoardo De Robertis
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Biologia e Biotecnologie, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Matteo Pirro
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Biologia e Biotecnologie, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Antonella Mencacci
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Biologia e Biotecnologie, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Leonella Pasqualini
- Dipartimento di Chimica, Biologia e Biotecnologie, Università degli Studi di Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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del Álamo C, Vázquez-Calvo Á, Sanchiz Á, Rodríguez-Caravaca G, Martín R, Hernáez B, Méndez-Vigo-Carranza P, Sánchez García-Casarrubios J, Alcamí A, Pérez-Díaz JL. Fast Air-to-Liquid Sampler Detects Surges in SARS-CoV-2 Aerosol Levels in Hospital Rooms. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 20:ijerph20010576. [PMID: 36612897 PMCID: PMC9819203 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20010576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the dangers of airborne pathogen transmission. SARS-CoV-2 is known to be transmitted through aerosols; however, little is known about the dynamics of these aerosols in real environments, the conditions, and the minimum viral load required for infection. Efficiently measuring and capturing pathogens present in the air would help to understand the infection process. Air samplers usually take several hours to obtain an air sample. In this work a fast (1-2 min) method for capturing bioaerosols into a liquid medium has been tested in hospital rooms with COVID-19 patients. This fast sampling allows detecting transient levels of aerosols in the air. SARS-CoV-2 RNA is detected in aerosols from several hospital rooms at different levels. Interestingly, there are sudden boosts of the SARS-CoV-2 load in the air, suggesting that SARS-CoV-2 could be released abundantly at certain moments. These results show that the distribution of SARS-CoV-2-containing aerosols is not homogeneous in the hospital room. This technology is a fast and effective tool for capturing airborne matter in a very short time, which allows for fast decision-making any kind of hazard in the air is detected. It is also useful for a better understanding of aerosols dynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina del Álamo
- Escuela Politécnica, Universidad de Alcalá, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Ángela Vázquez-Calvo
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CBMSO), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), and Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - África Sanchiz
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CBMSO), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), and Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Gil Rodríguez-Caravaca
- Preventive Medicine Service, Hospital Universitario Fundación Alcorcón, 28922 Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Medical Specialities and Public Health, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, 28922 Alcorcón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Rocío Martín
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CBMSO), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), and Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Bruno Hernáez
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CBMSO), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), and Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - Antonio Alcamí
- Centro de Biología Molecular Severo Ochoa (CBMSO), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC), and Universidad Autónoma de Madrid (UAM), 28049 Madrid, Spain
- Correspondence: (A.A.); (J.L.P.-D.)
| | - José Luis Pérez-Díaz
- Escuela Politécnica, Universidad de Alcalá, 28801 Alcalá de Henares, Spain
- Correspondence: (A.A.); (J.L.P.-D.)
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Orenes-Piñero E, Moreno-Docón A, Candela-González J, Navas-Carrillo D, Ortega-García JA, Ramírez P. Confirmation of radiant catalytic ionization efficacy for airborne SARS-CoV-2 elimination indoors using "COVID19 traps". J Infect Public Health 2022; 15:1551-1554. [PMID: 36442385 PMCID: PMC9678206 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2022.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Radiant catalytic ionization (RCI) is a novel technology that uses the appropriate wavelength (240-260 nm) and the phenomenon of photo-oxidation leading to permanent removal of viruses, bacteria, and fungi. Here, two analyses were performed. The first of them was a complete analysis of environmental biosecurity in a hospital environment. The second one was a longitudinal study with 40 patients with confirmed COVID19 and high viral load to assess the efficacy of RCI technology eliminating airborne SARS-CoV-2 indoors. A significant decrease in the number of bacteria and fungi colony-forming units (CFUs) was found in rooms with RCI when compared with rooms without it (p=0.03 for both of them). In the second part of the study, 16 samples out of 40 (40%) were positives when RCI technology was absent; whereas, these samples were negative when the equipment was on. Incidence rates (IR) with their Poisson 95% Confidence Intervals (CI) were calculated as the number of positive tests with the purifier or without it, showing an IR difference of 48.5% [CI(15.9-81), p=0.004]. Furthermore, the IR ratio was calculated obtaining a value of 3.3, confirming that RCI diminished more than 3-fold the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 in the air of the patients' rooms, thus laying the first stone in the fight for prevention of SARS-CoV-2 dissemination indoors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esteban Orenes-Piñero
- Proteomic Unit, Instituto Murciano de Investigaciones Biosanitarias (IMIB_Pascual Parrilla), Murcia, Spain,Correspondence to: Campus Ciencias de la Salud, Carretera Buenavista s/n, CP 30120 El Palmar, Murcia, Spain
| | - Antonio Moreno-Docón
- Department of Virology, Hospital Clínico Universitario Virgen de la Arrixaca (HCUVA), Murcia, Spain
| | | | | | - Juan A. Ortega-García
- Environment and Human Health (EH2) Lab IMIB-Pascual Parrilla, Pediatric Environmental Health, HCUVA, Murcia, Spain
| | - Pablo Ramírez
- Department of Surgery, HCUVA, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
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Rahman Zuthi MF, Hossen MA, Pal SK, Mazumder MH, Hasan SMF, Hoque MM. Evaluating knowledge, awareness and associated water usage towards hand hygiene practices influenced by the current COVID-19 pandemic in Bangladesh. GROUNDWATER FOR SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT 2022; 19:100848. [PMID: 36164324 PMCID: PMC9493147 DOI: 10.1016/j.gsd.2022.100848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Hand hygiene is considered as one of the most effective ways for preventing transmissible diseases, especially for preventing virus-borne diseases. The study has been conducted to evaluate changes in knowledge, awareness and practices of hand hygiene due to the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Bangladesh. The potential factors influencing human behaviours for maintaining hand hygiene have also been explored. Moreover, a probable increase in daily water demand associated with the changed situation has been assessed. An online survey was performed among a total of 367 Bangladeshi residents about their practices of hand hygiene during pre-corona, corona, and of their perceived future practices at post-corona period. It has been observed that a significant percentage (62.1%) of the respondents have received basic hygiene education at any level of their academic education. Nevertheless, their hygiene practices were very poor before the COVID-19 pandemic. The outbreak of the COVID-19 has reinforced their previous knowledge and greatly influenced their behavioural changes towards practicing hand hygiene as per World Health Organization guidelines for preventing the virus outbreak. The changes, however, have created increased water demand. The estimated water usage is found to be 2.68 times (9.15 L/c/d) and 2.52 times (8.59 L/c/d) higher in the corona and post-corona period respectively than that of the pre-corona situation (3.41 L/c/d). The principal component analysis (PCA) elucidated that an individual's practice of hand hygiene was associated with income, level of academic and hygiene education, and the COVID-19 outbreak itself. Moreover, the influence of hygiene education and COVID-19 outbreak affecting the duration of handwashing are found highly significant (p-value < 0.001) from the regression analysis. Raising awareness towards behavioural change of an individual about water usage, improvement of academic curriculum regarding hand hygiene and provision of water pricing are recommended to attain sustainable development goals of the country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mst Farzana Rahman Zuthi
- Center for Environmental Science & Engineering Research (CESER), Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (CUET), Chattogram, 4349, Bangladesh
- Department of Civil Engineering, Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (CUET), Chattogram, 4349, Bangladesh
| | - Md Arif Hossen
- Center for Environmental Science & Engineering Research (CESER), Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (CUET), Chattogram, 4349, Bangladesh
| | - Sudip Kumar Pal
- Department of Civil Engineering, Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (CUET), Chattogram, 4349, Bangladesh
| | - Maruful Hasan Mazumder
- Department of Disaster Engineering and Management, Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (CUET), Chattogram, 4349, Bangladesh
| | - S M Farzin Hasan
- Department of Civil Engineering, Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (CUET), Chattogram, 4349, Bangladesh
| | - Md Muzamamel Hoque
- Department of Civil Engineering, Chittagong University of Engineering and Technology (CUET), Chattogram, 4349, Bangladesh
- Southern University Bangladesh, Chattogram, 4000, Bangladesh
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Moreno T, Gibbons W. Aerosol transmission of human pathogens: From miasmata to modern viral pandemics and their preservation potential in the Anthropocene record. GEOSCIENCE FRONTIERS 2022; 13:101282. [PMID: 38620922 PMCID: PMC8356732 DOI: 10.1016/j.gsf.2021.101282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Ongoing uncertainty over the relative importance of aerosol transmission of COVID-19 is in part rooted in the history of medical science and our understanding of how epidemic diseases can spread through human populations. Ancient Greek medical theory held that such illnesses are transmitted by airborne pathogenic emanations containing particulate matter ("miasmata"). Notable Roman and medieval scholars such as Varro, Ibn al-Khatib and Fracastoro developed these ideas, combining them with early germ theory and the concept of contagion. A widely held but vaguely defined belief in toxic miasmatic mists as a dominant causative agent in disease propagation was overtaken by the science of 19th century microbiology and epidemiology, especially in the study of cholera, which was proven to be mainly transmitted by contaminated water. Airborne disease transmission came to be viewed as burdened by a dubious historical reputation and difficult to demonstrate convincingly. A breakthrough came with the classic mid-20th century work of Wells, Riley and Mills who proved how expiratory aerosols (their "droplet nuclei") could transport still-infectious tuberculosis bacteria through ventilation systems. The topic of aerosol transmission of pathogenic respiratory diseases assumed a new dimension with the mid-late 20th century "Great Acceleration" of an increasingly hypermobile human population repeatedly infected by different strains of zoonotic viruses, and has taken centre stage this century in response to outbreaks of new respiratory infections that include coronaviruses. From a geoscience perspective, the consequences of pandemic-status diseases such as COVID-19, produced by viral pathogens utilising aerosols to infect a human population currently approaching 8 billion, are far-reaching and unprecedented. The obvious and sudden impacts on for example waste plastic production, water and air quality and atmospheric chemistry are accelerating human awareness of current environmental challenges. As such, the "anthropause" lockdown enforced by COVID-19 may come to be seen as a harbinger of change great enough to be preserved in the Anthropocene stratal record.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Moreno
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research, IDAEA-CSIC, 08034 Barcelona, Spain
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Correia G, Rodrigues L, Afonso M, Mota M, Oliveira J, Soares R, Tomás AL, Reichel A, Silva PM, Costa JJ, da Silva MG, Santos NC, Gonçalves T. SARS-CoV-2 air and surface contamination in residential settings. Sci Rep 2022; 12:18058. [PMID: 36302823 PMCID: PMC9610309 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-22679-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 transmission occurs mainly indoors, through virus-laden airborne particles. Although the presence and infectivity of SARS-CoV-2 in aerosol are now acknowledged, the underlying circumstances for its occurrence are still under investigation. The contamination of domiciliary environments during the isolation of SARS-CoV-2-infected patients in their respective rooms in individual houses and in a nursing home was investigated by collecting surface and air samples in these environments. Surface contamination was detected in different contexts, both on high and low-touch surfaces. To determine the presence of virus particles in the air, two sampling methodologies were used: air and deposition sampling. Positive deposition samples were found in sampling locations above the patient's height, and SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in impactation air samples within a size fraction below 2.5 μm. Surface samples rendered the highest positivity rate and persistence for a longer period. The presence of aerosolized SARS-CoV-2 RNA occurred mainly in deposition samples and closer to symptom onset. To evaluate the infectivity of selected positive samples, SARS-CoV-2 viability assays were performed, but our study was not able to validate the virus viability. The presented results confirm the presence of aerosolized SARS-CoV-2 RNA in indoor compartments occupied by COVID-19 patients with mild symptoms, in the absence of aerosol-generating clinical procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gil Correia
- grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342FMUC, Faculty of Medicine, Univ Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal ,grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342Medical Microbiology Research Group, CNC-Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal ,ARS Centro, IP, Alameda Júlio Henriques, 3000-457 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Luís Rodrigues
- grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342Universitary Clinic of Nephrology, Faculty of Medicine University of Coimbra Nephrology Service, Hospital and University Center of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Mariana Afonso
- grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342FMUC, Faculty of Medicine, Univ Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal ,grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342Medical Microbiology Research Group, CNC-Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Marta Mota
- grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342FMUC, Faculty of Medicine, Univ Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal ,grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342Medical Microbiology Research Group, CNC-Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Joana Oliveira
- grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342FMUC, Faculty of Medicine, Univ Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal ,grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342Medical Microbiology Research Group, CNC-Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Rui Soares
- grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342FMUC, Faculty of Medicine, Univ Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal ,grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342Medical Microbiology Research Group, CNC-Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal ,grid.418711.a0000 0004 0631 0608Department of Clinical Pathology, Instituto Português de Oncologia de Coimbra Francisco Gentil EPE, 3000-075 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Ana Luísa Tomás
- grid.9983.b0000 0001 2181 4263Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Anna Reichel
- grid.9983.b0000 0001 2181 4263Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Patrícia M. Silva
- grid.9983.b0000 0001 2181 4263Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - José J. Costa
- grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342ADAI, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Univ Coimbra, Rua Luís Reis Santos, Pólo II, 3030-788 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Manuel Gameiro da Silva
- grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342ADAI, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Univ Coimbra, Rua Luís Reis Santos, Pólo II, 3030-788 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Nuno C. Santos
- grid.9983.b0000 0001 2181 4263Instituto de Medicina Molecular, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Av. Prof. Egas Moniz, 1649-028 Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Teresa Gonçalves
- grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342FMUC, Faculty of Medicine, Univ Coimbra, Rua Larga, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal ,grid.8051.c0000 0000 9511 4342Medical Microbiology Research Group, CNC-Center for Neurosciences and Cell Biology, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal
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Genetic Load of SARS-CoV-2 in Aerosols Collected in Operating Theaters. Appl Environ Microbiol 2022; 88:e0129722. [PMID: 36102660 PMCID: PMC9552596 DOI: 10.1128/aem.01297-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
After the outbreak of COVID-19, additional protocols have been established to prevent the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 from the patient to the health personnel and vice versa in health care settings. However, in the case of emergency surgeries, it is not always possible to ensure that the patient is not infected with SARS-CoV-2, assuming a potential source of transmission of the virus to health personnel. This work aimed to evaluate the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 and quantify the viral load in indoor air samples collected inside operating rooms, where emergency and scheduled operations take place. Samples were collected for 3 weeks inside two operating rooms for 24 h at 38 L/min in quartz filters. RNA was extracted from the filters and analyzed using RT-qPCR targeting SARS-CoV-2 genes E, N1 and N2 regions. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in 11.3% of aerosol samples collected in operating rooms, despite with low concentrations (not detected at 13.5 cg/m3 and 10.5 cg/m3 in the scheduled and emergency operating rooms, respectively). Potential sources of airborne SARS-CoV-2 could be aerosolization of the virus during aerosol-generating procedures and in open surgery from patients that might have been recently infected with the virus, despite presenting a negative COVID-19 test. Another source could be related to health care workers unknowingly infected with the virus and exhaling SARS-CoV-2 virions into the air. These results highlight the importance of reinforcing preventive measures against COVID-19 in operating rooms, such as the correct use of protective equipment, screening programs for health care workers, and information campaigns. IMPORTANCE Operating rooms are critical environments in which asepsis must be ensured. The COVID-19 pandemic entailed the implementation of additional preventative measures in health care settings, including operating theaters. Although one of the measures is to operate only COVID-19 free patients, this measure cannot be always implemented, especially in emergency interventions. Therefore, a surveillance campaign was conducted during 3 weeks in two operating rooms to assess the level of SARS-CoV-2 genetic material detected in operating theaters with the aim to assess the risk of COVID-19 transmission during operating procedures. SARS-CoV-2 genetic material was detected in 11% of aerosol samples collected in operating rooms, despite with low concentrations. Plausible SARS-CoV-2 sources have been discussed, including patients and health care personnel infected with the virus. These results highlight the importance of reinforcing preventive measures against COVID-19 in operating rooms, such as the correct use of protective equipment, screening programs for health care workers and information campaigns.
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Viral Cultures for Assessing Fomite Transmission of SARS-CoV-2: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Hosp Infect 2022; 130:63-94. [PMID: 36115620 PMCID: PMC9473144 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2022.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Revised: 08/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Background The role of fomites in the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is unclear. Aim To assess whether SARS-CoV-2 can be transmitted through fomites, using evidence from viral culture studies. Methods Searches were conducted in the World Health Organization COVID-19 Database, PubMed, LitCovid, medRxiv, and Google Scholar to December 31st, 2021. Studies that investigated fomite transmission and performed viral culture to assess the cytopathic effect (CPE) of positive fomite samples and confirmation of SARS-CoV-2 as the cause of the CPE were included. The risk of bias using a checklist modified from the modified Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies – 2 (QUADAS-2) criteria was assessed. Findings Twenty-three studies were included. The overall risk of bias was moderate. Five studies demonstrated replication-competent virus from fomite cultures and three used genome sequencing to match fomite samples with human clinical specimens. The mean cycle threshold (CT) of samples with positive viral culture was significantly lower compared with cultured samples that returned negative results (standardized mean difference: –1.45; 95% confidence interval (CI): –2.00 to –0.90; I2 = 0%; P < 0.00001). The likelihood of isolating replication-competent virus was significantly greater when CT was <30 (relative risk: 3.10; 95% CI: 1.32 to 7.31; I2 = 71%; P = 0.01). Infectious specimens were mostly detected within seven days of symptom onset. One study showed possible transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from fomites to humans. Conclusion The evidence from published studies suggests that replication-competent SARS-CoV-2 is present on fomites. Replication-competent SARS-CoV-2 is significantly more likely when the PCR CT for clinical specimens and fomite samples is <30. Further studies should investigate the duration of infectiousness of SARS-CoV-2 and the frequency of transmission from fomites.
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da Silva SJR, do Nascimento JCF, Germano Mendes RP, Guarines KM, Targino Alves da Silva C, da Silva PG, de Magalhães JJF, Vigar JRJ, Silva-Júnior A, Kohl A, Pardee K, Pena L. Two Years into the COVID-19 Pandemic: Lessons Learned. ACS Infect Dis 2022; 8:1758-1814. [PMID: 35940589 PMCID: PMC9380879 DOI: 10.1021/acsinfecdis.2c00204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a highly transmissible and virulent human-infecting coronavirus that emerged in late December 2019 in Wuhan, China, causing a respiratory disease called coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which has massively impacted global public health and caused widespread disruption to daily life. The crisis caused by COVID-19 has mobilized scientists and public health authorities across the world to rapidly improve our knowledge about this devastating disease, shedding light on its management and control, and spawned the development of new countermeasures. Here we provide an overview of the state of the art of knowledge gained in the last 2 years about the virus and COVID-19, including its origin and natural reservoir hosts, viral etiology, epidemiology, modes of transmission, clinical manifestations, pathophysiology, diagnosis, treatment, prevention, emerging variants, and vaccines, highlighting important differences from previously known highly pathogenic coronaviruses. We also discuss selected key discoveries from each topic and underline the gaps of knowledge for future investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Severino Jefferson Ribeiro da Silva
- Laboratory of Virology and Experimental Therapy (LAVITE), Department of Virology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute (IAM), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), 50670-420 Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil.,Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Jessica Catarine Frutuoso do Nascimento
- Laboratory of Virology and Experimental Therapy (LAVITE), Department of Virology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute (IAM), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), 50670-420 Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Renata Pessôa Germano Mendes
- Laboratory of Virology and Experimental Therapy (LAVITE), Department of Virology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute (IAM), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), 50670-420 Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Klarissa Miranda Guarines
- Laboratory of Virology and Experimental Therapy (LAVITE), Department of Virology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute (IAM), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), 50670-420 Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Caroline Targino Alves da Silva
- Laboratory of Virology and Experimental Therapy (LAVITE), Department of Virology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute (IAM), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), 50670-420 Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Poliana Gomes da Silva
- Laboratory of Virology and Experimental Therapy (LAVITE), Department of Virology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute (IAM), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), 50670-420 Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Jurandy Júnior Ferraz de Magalhães
- Laboratory of Virology and Experimental Therapy (LAVITE), Department of Virology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute (IAM), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), 50670-420 Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil.,Department of Virology, Pernambuco State Central Laboratory (LACEN/PE), 52171-011 Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil.,University of Pernambuco (UPE), Serra Talhada Campus, 56909-335 Serra Talhada, Pernambuco, Brazil.,Public Health Laboratory of the XI Regional Health, 56912-160 Serra Talhada, Pernambuco, Brazil
| | - Justin R J Vigar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada
| | - Abelardo Silva-Júnior
- Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Federal University of Alagoas (UFAL), 57072-900 Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Alain Kohl
- MRC-University of Glasgow Centre for Virus Research, Glasgow G61 1QH, United Kingdom
| | - Keith Pardee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3M2, Canada.,Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G8, Canada
| | - Lindomar Pena
- Laboratory of Virology and Experimental Therapy (LAVITE), Department of Virology, Aggeu Magalhães Institute (IAM), Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz), 50670-420 Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil
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Wu X, Liu J, Zhang H, Zhou H, Wang W, Ma Y, Shen S, Cai X, Huang A, Wang D. Immunomolecular assay based on selective virion capture by spike antibody and viral nucleic acid amplification for detecting intact SARS-CoV-2 particles. J Nanobiotechnology 2022; 20:399. [PMID: 36064407 PMCID: PMC9444083 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-022-01558-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Effective therapeutics and vaccines for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are currently lacking because of the mutation and immune escape of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Based on the propagation characteristics of SARS-CoV-2, rapid and accurate detection of complete virions from clinical samples and the environment is critical for assessing infection risk and containing further COVID-19 outbreaks. However, currently applicable methods cannot achieve large-scale clinical application due to factors such as the high viral load, cumbersome virus isolation steps, demanding environmental conditions, and long experimental periods. In this study, we developed an immuno molecular detection method combining capture of the viral spike glycoprotein with monoclonal antibodies and nucleic acid amplification via quantitative reverse transcription PCR to rapidly and accurately detect complete virions. Results After constructing a novel pseudovirus, screening for specific antibodies, and optimizing the detection parameters, the assay achieved a limit of detection of 9 × 102 transduction units/mL of viral titer with high confidence (~ 95%) and excellent stability against human serum and common virus/pseudovirus. The coefficients of variation were 1.0 ~ 2.0% for intra-assay and inter-assay analyses, respectively. Compared with reverse transcription-PCR, the immunomolecular method more accurately quantified complete virions. SARS-CoV-2/pseudovirus was more stable on plastic and paper compared with aluminum and copper in the detection of SARS-CoV-2 pseudovirus under different conditions. Complete virions were detected up to 96 h after they were applied to these surfaces (except for copper), although the titer of the virions was greatly reduced. Conclusion Convenient, inexpensive, and accurate complete virus detection can be applied to many fields, including monitoring the infectivity of convalescent and post-discharge patients and assessing high-risk environments (isolation rooms, operating rooms, patient living environments, and cold chain logistics). This method can also be used to detect intact virions, including Hepatitis B and C viruses, human immunodeficiency virus, influenza, and the partial pulmonary virus, which may further improve the accuracy of diagnoses and facilitate individualized and precise treatments. Graphical Abstract ![]()
Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12951-022-01558-8.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Wu
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Infectious Diseases designated by the Chinese Ministry of Education, Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong, 400016, Chongqing, China.,College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, Yuzhong, China
| | - Junye Liu
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Infectious Diseases designated by the Chinese Ministry of Education, Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong, 400016, Chongqing, China
| | - Hongpeng Zhang
- Department of Blood Transfusion, Women and Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 401147, China.,Department of Blood Transfusion, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, 401147, China
| | - Hua Zhou
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400010, Yuzhong, China
| | - Wen Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Infectious Diseases designated by the Chinese Ministry of Education, Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong, 400016, Chongqing, China
| | - Yuanyan Ma
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Infectious Diseases designated by the Chinese Ministry of Education, Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong, 400016, Chongqing, China
| | - Shimei Shen
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Infectious Diseases designated by the Chinese Ministry of Education, Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong, 400016, Chongqing, China
| | - Xuefei Cai
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Infectious Diseases designated by the Chinese Ministry of Education, Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong, 400016, Chongqing, China
| | - Ailong Huang
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Infectious Diseases designated by the Chinese Ministry of Education, Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong, 400016, Chongqing, China
| | - Deqiang Wang
- The Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology of Infectious Diseases designated by the Chinese Ministry of Education, Department of Infectious Diseases, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Chongqing Medical University, Yuzhong, 400016, Chongqing, China. .,College of Laboratory Medicine, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, Yuzhong, China.
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Fujita R, Kurosu H, Norizuki M, Ohishi T, Zamoto-Niikura A, Iwaki M, Mochida K, Takagi H, Harada T, Tsushima K, Matsumoto T, Hanaki KI, Sugai M, Yamagishi T. Potential risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection among people handling linens used by COVID-19 patients before and after washing. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14994. [PMID: 36056067 PMCID: PMC9438874 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18945-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection when people handle linens is uncertain. We examined the presence of SARS-CoV-2 on linens, in the air, and on personal protective equipment (PPE) to assess potential infection risk among individuals who handle linens used by SARS-CoV-2-infected people. Patients in a hospital and an accommodation facility who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 participated in this study in 2020. Linen samples before washing or disinfection, rinse water after washing or disinfection, air in the workplace at the hospital and an accommodation facility, and the PPE worn by linen-handling people were tested for SARS-CoV-2 RNA and viable viruses. Among 700 samples from 13 SARS-CoV-2-infected participants and their surrounding environment, SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected from 14% (52/362) of the linens used by COVID-19 patients (cycle threshold [Ct] value: 33-40). SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected from 8% (2/26) of rinse water after washing or disinfection, from 15% (16/104) of air samples in the workspace, and from 10% (5/52) of gowns worn by linen-handling people, all with high Ct values (> 36). No SARS-CoV-2 was isolated from any samples. The potential risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection from handling linens used by SARS-CoV-2-infected people exists but appears to below.
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Affiliation(s)
- Retsu Fujita
- Graduate School of Medicine, International University of Health and Welfare, 4-1-26, Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-8402, Japan
| | - Hitomi Kurosu
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Masataro Norizuki
- Graduate School of Medicine, International University of Health and Welfare, 4-1-26, Akasaka, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-8402, Japan
- Bureau of International Health Cooperation, National Center for Global Health and Medicine, 1-21-1 Toyama, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 162-8655, Japan
| | - Takayuki Ohishi
- Department of Infection Control and Prevention, Saiseikai Yokohama City Eastern Hospital, 3-6-1 Shimosueyoshi, Tsurumiku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-8765, Japan
| | - Aya Zamoto-Niikura
- Management Department of Biosafety , Laboratory Animal, and Pathogen Bank, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Masaaki Iwaki
- Management Department of Biosafety , Laboratory Animal, and Pathogen Bank, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Keiko Mochida
- Management Department of Biosafety , Laboratory Animal, and Pathogen Bank, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Hirotaka Takagi
- Management Department of Biosafety , Laboratory Animal, and Pathogen Bank, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Toshihiko Harada
- Management Department of Biosafety , Laboratory Animal, and Pathogen Bank, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Kenji Tsushima
- International University of Health and Welfare Narita Hospital, 852 Hatakeda, Narita, Chiba, 286-8520, Japan
| | - Tetsuya Matsumoto
- International University of Health and Welfare Narita Hospital, 852 Hatakeda, Narita, Chiba, 286-8520, Japan
| | - Ken-Ichi Hanaki
- Management Department of Biosafety , Laboratory Animal, and Pathogen Bank, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Motoyuki Sugai
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan
| | - Takuya Yamagishi
- Antimicrobial Resistance Research Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1-23-1 Toyama, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 162-8640, Japan.
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Nielsen JPS, Madsen JR, Fogh K, Mikkelsen EH, Wolsk E, Kirkby NS, Bundgaard H, Iversen K. SARS-CoV-2 surface swabs in locations with public access – potential for improved source control. Open Forum Infect Dis 2022; 9:ofac431. [PMID: 36111171 PMCID: PMC9452121 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofac431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) on surfaces at public locations has been minimally described. By swab testing, we investigated the presence of SARS-CoV-2 on surfaces in public locations during the pandemic in February 2022. The viability of SARS-CoV-2 was not tested. Almost 25% of surfaces were positive for SARS-CoV-2; this was most pronounced in supermarkets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob PS Nielsen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Johannes R Madsen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Department of Clinical Immunology, Section 7631, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Kamille Fogh
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Department of Cardiology, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Emma H Mikkelsen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Department of Cardiology, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Emil Wolsk
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Department of Cardiology, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Nikolai S Kirkby
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Viro-immunology Research Unit, Department of Infectious Diseases, Section 8632, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Henning Bundgaard
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- The Heart Center, Department of Cardiology, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
| | - Kasper Iversen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
- Department of Cardiology, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, University of Copenhagen , Copenhagen , Denmark
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47
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Silva PG, Branco PTBS, Soares RRG, Mesquita JR, Sousa SIV. SARS-CoV-2 air sampling: A systematic review on the methodologies for detection and infectivity. INDOOR AIR 2022; 32:e13083. [PMID: 36040285 PMCID: PMC9538005 DOI: 10.1111/ina.13083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This systematic review aims to present an overview of the current aerosol sampling methods (and equipment) being used to investigate the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in the air, along with the main parameters reported in the studies that are essential to analyze the advantages and disadvantages of each method and perspectives for future research regarding this mode of transmission. A systematic literature review was performed on PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Scopus to assess the current air sampling methodologies being applied to SARS-CoV-2. Most of the studies took place in indoor environments and healthcare settings and included air and environmental sampling. The collection mechanisms used were impinger, cyclone, impactor, filters, water-based condensation, and passive sampling. Most of the reviewed studies used RT-PCR to test the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the collected samples. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected with all collection mechanisms. From the studies detecting the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA, fourteen assessed infectivity. Five studies detected viable viruses using impactor, water-based condensation, and cyclone collection mechanisms. There is a need for a standardized protocol for sampling SARS-CoV-2 in air, which should also account for other influencing parameters, including air exchange ratio in the room sampled, relative humidity, temperature, and lighting conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla G Silva
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), Porto, Portugal
- School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Epidemiology Research Unit (EPI Unit), Institute of Public Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro T B S Branco
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ruben R G Soares
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Science for Life Laboratory, Stockholm University, Solna, Sweden
- Division of Nanobiotechnology, Department of Protein Science, Science for Life Laboratory, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, Solna, Sweden
| | - João R Mesquita
- Laboratory for Integrative and Translational Research in Population Health (ITR), Porto, Portugal
- Epidemiology Research Unit (EPI Unit), Institute of Public Health, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sofia I V Sousa
- LEPABE - Laboratory for Process Engineering, Environment, Biotechnology and Energy, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- ALiCE - Associate Laboratory in Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Barrigah-Benissan K, Ory J, Boudet A, Stephan R, Sotto A, Lavigne JP. Environmental detection of SARS-CoV-2 in hospital rooms in different wards of an University Hospital. J Hosp Infect 2022; 128:74-79. [PMID: 35944790 PMCID: PMC9356633 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhin.2022.07.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Background Methods Results Conclusion
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Affiliation(s)
- K Barrigah-Benissan
- Bacterial Virulence and Chronic Infections, INSERM U1047, Department of Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, University of Montpellier, CHU Nîmes, Nîmes, France
| | - J Ory
- Bacterial Virulence and Chronic Infections, INSERM U1047, Department of Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, University of Montpellier, CHU Nîmes, Nîmes, France.
| | - A Boudet
- Bacterial Virulence and Chronic Infections, INSERM U1047, Department of Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, University of Montpellier, CHU Nîmes, Nîmes, France
| | - R Stephan
- Bacterial Virulence and Chronic Infections, INSERM U1047, Department of Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, University of Montpellier, CHU Nîmes, Nîmes, France
| | - A Sotto
- Bacterial Virulence and Chronic Infections, INSERM U1047, Department of Infectious and Tropical Diseases, University of Montpellier, CHU Nîmes, Nîmes, France
| | - J-P Lavigne
- Bacterial Virulence and Chronic Infections, INSERM U1047, Department of Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene, University of Montpellier, CHU Nîmes, Nîmes, France
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49
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Lu F, Gecgel O, Ramanujam A, Botte GG. SARS-CoV-2 Surveillance in Indoor Air Using Electrochemical Sensor for Continuous Monitoring and Real-Time Alerts. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:523. [PMID: 35884326 PMCID: PMC9312472 DOI: 10.3390/bios12070523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The severe acute respiratory syndrome related coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has spread globally and there is still a lack of rapid detection techniques for SARS-CoV-2 surveillance in indoor air. In this work, two test rigs were developed that enable continuous air monitoring for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 by sample collection and testing. The collected samples from simulated SARS-CoV-2 contaminated air were analyzed using an ultra-fast COVID-19 diagnostic sensor (UFC-19). The test rigs utilized two air sampling methods: cyclone-based collection and internal impaction. The former achieved a limit of detection (LoD) of 0.004 cp/L in the air (which translates to 0.5 cp/mL when tested in aqueous solution), lower than the latter with a limit of 0.029 cp/L in the air. The LoD of 0.5 cp/mL using the UFC-19 sensor in aqueous solution is significantly lower than the best-in-class assays (100 cp/mL) and FDA EUA RT-PCR test (6250 cp/mL). In addition, the developed test rig provides an ultra-fast method to detect airborne SARS-CoV-2. The required time to test 250 L air is less than 5 min. While most of the time is consumed by the air collection process, the sensing is completed in less than 2 s using the UFC-19 sensor. This method is much faster than both the rapid antigen (<20 min) and RT-PCR test (<90 min).
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50
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Bao Q, Yang T, Yang M, Mao C. Detection, prevention and treatment of COVID-19 and opportunities for nanobiotechnology. VIEW 2022; 3:20200181. [PMID: 35600668 PMCID: PMC9111118 DOI: 10.1002/viw.20200181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the outbreak of COVID-19, the number of confirmed cases and deaths has increased globally at a dramatic speed. In view of the serious health threat to humans, this review discusses the state-of-the-art studies about fighting this disease. It summarizes the current strategies and recent advances in detecting, preventing, and treating COVID-19 and interprets the underlying mechanisms in detail. Detection of COVID-19 can be successfully achieved by multiple techniques such as polymerase chain reaction, computed tomography imaging, and nano-biosensing. Inactivated virus vaccine, nucleic acid vaccine, and different nanoparticles have been employed to effectively prevent COVID-19. A variety of agents such as antiviral agents, neutralizing antibodies, and nanotherapeutics have been developed to treat COVID-19 with exciting efficacy. Although nanobiotechnology has shown great potential in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of COVID-19, efforts should be made to explore new biocompatible nano-biomaterials to advance this field to clinical applications. Hence, nanobiotechnology paves a new way to detect, prevent, and treat COVID-19 effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Bao
- School of Materials Science and EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiangChina
| | - Tao Yang
- School of Materials Science and EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiangChina
| | - Mingying Yang
- College of Animal ScienceInstitute of Applied Bioresource ResearchZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiangChina
| | - Chuanbin Mao
- School of Materials Science and EngineeringZhejiang UniversityHangzhouZhejiangChina
- Department of Chemistry and BiochemistryUniversity of OklahomaNormanOklahomaUSA
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