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Haowei Y, Mahyuddin N, Bin Nik Ghazali NN, Wang Z, Liu Y, Pan S, Badruddin IA. A critical review of research methodologies for COVID-19 transmission in indoor built environment. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2024; 34:3413-3477. [PMID: 38385569 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2024.2308731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused massive losses for the global economy. Scholars have used different methods to study the transmission mode and influencing factors of the virus to find effective methods to provide people with a healthy built environment. However, these studies arrived at different or even contradictory conclusions. This review presents the main research methodologies utilized in this field, summarizes the main investigation methods, and critically discusses their related conclusions. Data statistical analysis, sample collection, simulation models, and replication transmission scenarios are the main research methods. The summarized conclusion for prevention from all reviewed papers are: adequate ventilation and proper location of return air vents, proper use of personal protective equipment, as well as the reasonable and strict enforcement of policies are the main methods for reducing the transmission. Recommendations including standardized databases, causation clarification, rigorous experiment design, improved simulation accuracy and verification are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Haowei
- Centre for Building, Construction & Tropical Architecture (BuCTA), Faculty of Built Environment, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Norhayati Mahyuddin
- Centre for Building, Construction & Tropical Architecture (BuCTA), Faculty of Built Environment, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nik Nazri Bin Nik Ghazali
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Zeyu Wang
- China Nuclear Power Engineering Co. Ltd, Beijing Institute of Nuclear Engineering, Beijing, China
| | - Yiqiao Liu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Song Pan
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Green Built Environment and Energy Efficient Technology, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Comprehensive Energy Saving of Cold Regions Architecture of Ministry of Education, Jilin Jianzhu University, Changchun, PR China
| | - Irfan Anjum Badruddin
- Mechanical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
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2
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Shroff S, Perämäki A, Väisänen A, Pasanen P, Grönlund K, Nissinen VH, Jänis J, Haapala A, Marjomäki V. Tree Species-Dependent Inactivation of Coronaviruses and Enteroviruses on Solid Wood Surfaces. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2024; 16:29621-29633. [PMID: 38806169 PMCID: PMC11181278 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.4c02156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
The ongoing challenge of viral transmission, exemplified by the Covid pandemic and recurrent viral outbreaks, necessitates the exploration of sustainable antiviral solutions. This study investigates the underexplored antiviral potential of wooden surfaces. We evaluated the antiviral efficacy of various wood types, including coniferous and deciduous trees, against enveloped coronaviruses and nonenveloped enteroviruses like coxsackie virus A9. Our findings revealed excellent antiviral activity manifesting already within 10 to 15 min in Scots pine and Norway spruce, particularly against enveloped viruses. In contrast, other hardwoods displayed varied efficacy, with oak showing effectiveness against the enterovirus. This antiviral activity was consistently observed across a spectrum of humidity levels (20 to 90 RH%), while the antiviral efficacy manifested itself more rapidly at 37 °C vs 21 °C. Key to our findings is the chemical composition of these woods. Resin acids and terpenes were prevalent in pine and spruce, correlating with their antiviral performance, while oak's high phenolic content mirrored its efficacy against enterovirus. The pine surface absorbed a higher fraction of the coronavirus in contrast to oak, whereas enteroviruses were not absorbed on those surfaces. Thermal treatment of wood or mixing wood with plastic, such as in wood-plastic composites, strongly compromised the antiviral functionality of wood materials. This study highlights the role of bioactive chemicals in the antiviral action of wood and opens new avenues for employing wood surfaces as a natural and sustainable barrier against viral transmissions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sailee Shroff
- Department
of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä 40500, Finland
| | - Anni Perämäki
- Department
of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä 40500, Finland
| | - Antti Väisänen
- Department
of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio 70210, Finland
| | - Pertti Pasanen
- Department
of Environmental and Biological Sciences, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio 70210, Finland
| | - Krista Grönlund
- Department
of Chemistry, Sustainable Technologies, University of Eastern Finland, 80100 Joensuu, Finland
| | - Ville H. Nissinen
- Department
of Chemistry, Sustainable Technologies, University of Eastern Finland, 80100 Joensuu, Finland
| | - Janne Jänis
- Department
of Chemistry, Sustainable Technologies, University of Eastern Finland, 80100 Joensuu, Finland
| | - Antti Haapala
- Department
of Chemistry, Sustainable Technologies, University of Eastern Finland, 80100 Joensuu, Finland
- FSCN
Research Centre, Mid Sweden University, SE-85170 Sundsvall, Sweden
| | - Varpu Marjomäki
- Department
of Biological and Environmental Sciences and Nanoscience Center, University of Jyväskylä, Jyväskylä 40500, Finland
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3
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Longest AK, Rockey NC, Lakdawala SS, Marr LC. Review of factors affecting virus inactivation in aerosols and droplets. J R Soc Interface 2024; 21:18. [PMID: 38920060 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2024.0018] [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: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The inactivation of viruses in aerosol particles (aerosols) and droplets depends on many factors, but the precise mechanisms of inactivation are not known. The system involves complex physical and biochemical interactions. We reviewed the literature to establish current knowledge about these mechanisms and identify knowledge gaps. We identified 168 relevant papers and grouped results by the following factors: virus type and structure, aerosol or droplet size, temperature, relative humidity (RH) and evaporation, chemical composition of the aerosol or droplet, pH and atmospheric composition. These factors influence the dynamic microenvironment surrounding a virion and thus may affect its inactivation. Results indicate that viruses experience biphasic decay as the carrier aerosols or droplets undergo evaporation and equilibrate with the surrounding air, and their final physical state (liquid, semi-solid or solid) depends on RH. Virus stability, RH and temperature are interrelated, but the effects of RH are multifaceted and still not completely understood. Studies on the impact of pH and atmospheric composition on virus stability have raised new questions that require further exploration. The frequent practice of studying virus inactivation in large droplets and culture media may limit our understanding of inactivation mechanisms that are relevant for transmission, so we encourage the use of particles of physiologically relevant size and composition in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra K Longest
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech , Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Nicole C Rockey
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Duke University , Durham, NC, USA
| | - Seema S Lakdawala
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University , Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Linsey C Marr
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech , Blacksburg, VA, USA
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Menhat M, Ariffin EH, Dong WS, Zakaria J, Ismailluddin A, Shafril HAM, Muhammad M, Othman AR, Kanesan T, Ramli SP, Akhir MF, Ratnayake AS. Rain, rain, go away, come again another day: do climate variations enhance the spread of COVID-19? Global Health 2024; 20:43. [PMID: 38745248 PMCID: PMC11092248 DOI: 10.1186/s12992-024-01044-w] [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: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
The spread of infectious diseases was further promoted due to busy cities, increased travel, and climate change, which led to outbreaks, epidemics, and even pandemics. The world experienced the severity of the 125 nm virus called the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), a pandemic declared by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2019. Many investigations revealed a strong correlation between humidity and temperature relative to the kinetics of the virus's spread into the hosts. This study aimed to solve the riddle of the correlation between environmental factors and COVID-19 by applying RepOrting standards for Systematic Evidence Syntheses (ROSES) with the designed research question. Five temperature and humidity-related themes were deduced via the review processes, namely 1) The link between solar activity and pandemic outbreaks, 2) Regional area, 3) Climate and weather, 4) Relationship between temperature and humidity, and 5) the Governmental disinfection actions and guidelines. A significant relationship between solar activities and pandemic outbreaks was reported throughout the review of past studies. The grand solar minima (1450-1830) and solar minima (1975-2020) coincided with the global pandemic. Meanwhile, the cooler, lower humidity, and low wind movement environment reported higher severity of cases. Moreover, COVID-19 confirmed cases and death cases were higher in countries located within the Northern Hemisphere. The Blackbox of COVID-19 was revealed through the work conducted in this paper that the virus thrives in cooler and low-humidity environments, with emphasis on potential treatments and government measures relative to temperature and humidity. HIGHLIGHTS: • The coronavirus disease 2019 (COIVD-19) is spreading faster in low temperatures and humid area. • Weather and climate serve as environmental drivers in propagating COVID-19. • Solar radiation influences the spreading of COVID-19. • The correlation between weather and population as the factor in spreading of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masha Menhat
- Faculty of Maritime Studies, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Effi Helmy Ariffin
- Institute of Oceanography and Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia.
| | - Wan Shiao Dong
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Junainah Zakaria
- Institute of Oceanography and Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | - Aminah Ismailluddin
- Faculty of Science and Marine Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
| | | | - Mahazan Muhammad
- Social, Environmental and Developmental Sustainability Research Center, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600, Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ahmad Rosli Othman
- Institute of Geology Malaysia, Board of Geologists, 62100, Putrajaya, Malaysia
| | - Thavamaran Kanesan
- Executive Office, Proofreading By A UK PhD, 51-1, Biz Avenue II, 63000, Cyberjaya, Malaysia
| | - Suzana Pil Ramli
- Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Fadzil Akhir
- Institute of Oceanography and Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, 21030, Kuala Nerus, Terengganu, Malaysia
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Ahmad Wadi AFA, Onomura D, Funamori H, Khatun MM, Okada S, Iizasa H, Yoshiyama H. Effects of Strain Differences, Humidity Changes, and Saliva Contamination on the Inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 by Ion Irradiation. Viruses 2024; 16:520. [PMID: 38675863 PMCID: PMC11055001 DOI: 10.3390/v16040520] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
One of the methods to inactivate viruses is to denature viral proteins using released ions. However, there have been no reports detailing the effects of changes in humidity or contamination with body fluids on the inactivation of viruses. This study investigated the effects of humidity changes and saliva contamination on the efficacy of SARS-CoV-2 inactivation with ions using multiple viral strains. Virus solutions with different infectious titers were dropped onto a circular nitrocellulose membrane and irradiated with ions from 10 cm above the membrane. After the irradiation of ions for 60, 90, and 120 min, changes in viral infectious titers were measured. The effect of ions on virus inactivation under different humidity conditions was also examined using virus solutions containing 90% mixtures of saliva collected from 10 people. A decrease in viral infectivity was observed over time for all strains, but ion irradiation further accelerated the decrease in viral infectivity. Ion irradiation can inactivate all viral strains, but at 80% humidity, the effect did not appear until 90 min after irradiation. The presence of saliva protected the virus from drying and maintained infectiousness for a longer period compared with no saliva. In particular, the Omicron strain retained its infectivity titer longer than the other strains. Ion irradiation demonstrated a consistent reduction in the number of infectious viruses when compared to the control across varying levels of humidity and irradiation periods. This underscores the notable effectiveness of irradiation, even when the reduction effect is as modest as 50%, thereby emphasizing its crucial role in mitigating the rapid dissemination of SARS-CoV-2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afifah Fatimah Azzahra Ahmad Wadi
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, 89-1 Enya, Izumo 693-8504, Shimane, Japan; (A.F.A.A.W.); (M.M.K.); (S.O.); (H.I.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Muslim Indonesia, Makassar 9023, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
| | - Daichi Onomura
- Division of Virology, Department of Infection and Immunity, Faculty of Medicine, Jichi Medical University, Shimotsuke 329-0498, Tochigi, Japan;
| | | | - Mst Mahmuda Khatun
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, 89-1 Enya, Izumo 693-8504, Shimane, Japan; (A.F.A.A.W.); (M.M.K.); (S.O.); (H.I.)
| | - Shunpei Okada
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, 89-1 Enya, Izumo 693-8504, Shimane, Japan; (A.F.A.A.W.); (M.M.K.); (S.O.); (H.I.)
| | - Hisashi Iizasa
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, 89-1 Enya, Izumo 693-8504, Shimane, Japan; (A.F.A.A.W.); (M.M.K.); (S.O.); (H.I.)
| | - Hironori Yoshiyama
- Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Shimane University, 89-1 Enya, Izumo 693-8504, Shimane, Japan; (A.F.A.A.W.); (M.M.K.); (S.O.); (H.I.)
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Rockey NC, Le Sage V, Marr LC, Lakdawala SS. Seasonal influenza viruses decay more rapidly at intermediate humidity in droplets containing saliva compared to respiratory mucus. Appl Environ Microbiol 2024; 90:e0201023. [PMID: 38193683 PMCID: PMC10880610 DOI: 10.1128/aem.02010-23] [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: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Expulsions of virus-laden aerosols or droplets from the oral and nasal cavities of an infected host are an important source of onward respiratory virus transmission. However, the presence of infectious influenza virus in the oral cavity during infection has not been widely considered, and thus, little work has explored the environmental persistence of influenza virus in oral cavity expulsions. Using the ferret model, we detected infectious virus in the nasal and oral cavities, suggesting that the virus can be expelled into the environment from both anatomical sites. We also assessed the stability of two influenza A viruses (H1N1 and H3N2) in droplets of human saliva or respiratory mucus over a range of relative humidities. We observed that influenza virus infectivity decays rapidly in saliva droplets at intermediate relative humidity, while viruses in airway surface liquid droplets retain infectivity. Virus inactivation was not associated with bulk protein content, salt content, or droplet drying time. Instead, we found that saliva droplets exhibited distinct inactivation kinetics during the wet and dry phases at intermediate relative humidity, and droplet residue morphology may lead to the elevated first-order inactivation rate observed during the dry phase. Additionally, distinct differences in crystalline structure and nanobead localization were observed between saliva and airway surface liquid droplets. Together, our work demonstrates that different respiratory fluids exhibit unique virus persistence profiles and suggests that influenza viruses expelled from the oral cavity may contribute to virus transmission in low- and high-humidity environments.IMPORTANCEDetermining how long viruses persist in the environment is important for mitigating transmission risk. Expelled infectious droplets and aerosols are composed of respiratory fluids, including saliva and complex mucus mixtures, but how well influenza viruses survive in such fluids is largely unknown. Here, we find that infectious influenza virus is present in the oral cavity of infected ferrets, suggesting that saliva-containing expulsions can play a role in onward transmission. Additionally, influenza virus in droplets composed of saliva degrades more rapidly than virus within respiratory mucus. Droplet composition impacts the crystalline structure and virus localization in dried droplets. These results suggest that viruses from distinct sites in the respiratory tract could have variable persistence in the environment, which will impact viral transmission fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole C. Rockey
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Duke University, Durham, North Carolina, USA
| | - Valerie Le Sage
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Linsey C. Marr
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, Virginia, USA
| | - Seema S. Lakdawala
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, The University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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7
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Andrup L, Krogfelt KA, Stephansen L, Hansen KS, Graversen BK, Wolkoff P, Madsen AM. Reduction of acute respiratory infections in day-care by non-pharmaceutical interventions: a narrative review. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1332078. [PMID: 38420031 PMCID: PMC10899481 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1332078] [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: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Children who start in day-care have 2-4 times as many respiratory infections compared to children who are cared for at home, and day-care staff are among the employees with the highest absenteeism. The extensive new knowledge that has been generated in the COVID-19 era should be used in the prevention measures we prioritize. The purpose of this narrative review is to answer the questions: Which respiratory viruses are the most significant in day-care centers and similar indoor environments? What do we know about the transmission route of these viruses? What evidence is there for the effectiveness of different non-pharmaceutical prevention measures? Design Literature searches with different terms related to respiratory infections in humans, mitigation strategies, viral transmission mechanisms, and with special focus on day-care, kindergarten or child nurseries, were conducted in PubMed database and Web of Science. Searches with each of the main viruses in combination with transmission, infectivity, and infectious spread were conducted separately supplemented through the references of articles that were retrieved. Results Five viruses were found to be responsible for ≈95% of respiratory infections: rhinovirus, (RV), influenza virus (IV), respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), coronavirus (CoV), and adenovirus (AdV). Novel research, emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggests that most respiratory viruses are primarily transmitted in an airborne manner carried by aerosols (microdroplets). Conclusion Since airborne transmission is dominant for the most common respiratory viruses, the most important preventive measures consist of better indoor air quality that reduces viral concentrations and viability by appropriate ventilation strategies. Furthermore, control of the relative humidity and temperature, which ensures optimal respiratory functionality and, together with low resident density (or mask use) and increased time outdoors, can reduce the occurrence of respiratory infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lars Andrup
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Karen A Krogfelt
- Department of Science and Environment, Molecular and Medical Biology, PandemiX Center, Roskilde University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Lene Stephansen
- Gladsaxe Municipality, Social and Health Department, Gladsaxe, Denmark
| | | | | | - Peder Wolkoff
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Anne Mette Madsen
- The National Research Centre for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
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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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Vahedian M, Sharafkhani R, Pournia Y. Short-term effect of meteorological factors on COVID-19 mortality in Qom, Iran. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 33:1515-1524. [PMID: 35917482 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2022.2104821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The present study was conducted to assess the short-term effects of the meteorological factors on the COVID-19 mortality in Qom, Iran. The GAM with a quasi-Poisson link function was used to evaluate the impact of temperature, DTR, relative humidity, and absolute humidity on the COVID-19 mortality, controlling potential confounders such as time trend, air pollutants, and day of the week. The results showed that the risk of COVID-19 mortality was reduced, in single-day lag/multiple-day average lag, per one-unit increase in absolute humidity (percentage change in lag 0=-33.64% (95% CI (-42.44, -23.49)), and relative humidity (percentage change in lag 0=-1.87% (95% CI (-2.52, -1.22)). Also, per one-unit increase in DTR value, COVID death risk increased in single-day and multiple-day average lag. This study demonstrated a significant relationship between the four meteorological variables and the COVID-19 mortality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mostafa Vahedian
- Department of Social Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
- Research Center for Environmental Pollutants, Qom University of Medical Sciences, Qom, Iran
| | - Rahim Sharafkhani
- Department of Public Health, Khoy University of Medical Sciences, Khoy, Iran
| | - Yadollah Pournia
- Department of English Language, Faculty of Medicine, Lorestan University of Medical Sciences, Khorramabad, Iran
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10
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Ji J, Wang H, Wang L, Ramazi P, Kong JD, Watmough J. Climate-dependent effectiveness of nonpharmaceutical interventions on COVID-19 mitigation. Math Biosci 2023; 366:109087. [PMID: 37858753 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbs.2023.109087] [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: 01/07/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Environmental factors have a significant impact on the transmission of infectious diseases. Existing results show that the novel coronavirus can persist outside the host. We propose a susceptible-exposed-presymptomatic-infectious-asymptomatic-recovered-susceptible (SEPIARS) model with a vaccination compartment and indirect incidence to explore the effect of environmental conditions, temperature and humidity, on the transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Using climate data and daily confirmed cases data in two Canadian cities with different atmospheric conditions, we evaluate the mortality rates of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and further estimate the transmission rates by the inverse method, respectively. The numerical results show that high temperature or humidity can be helpful in mitigating the spread of COVID-19 during the warm summer months. Our findings verify that nonpharmaceutical interventions are less effective if the virus can persist for a long time on surfaces. Based on climate data, we can forecast the transmission rate and the infection cases up to four weeks in the future by a generalized boosting machine learning model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juping Ji
- Department of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; Interdisciplinary Lab for Mathematical Ecology and Epidemiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada; Interdisciplinary Lab for Mathematical Ecology and Epidemiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada.
| | - Lin Wang
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB E3B 5A3, Canada
| | - Pouria Ramazi
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Brock University, St. Catharines, ON L2S 3A1, Canada
| | - Jude Dzevela Kong
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Toronto, ON M3J 1P3, Canada
| | - James Watmough
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB E3B 5A3, Canada
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11
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Meister TL, Kirchhoff L, Brüggemann Y, Todt D, Steinmann J, Steinmann E. Stability of pathogens on banknotes and coins: A narrative review. J Med Virol 2023; 95:e29312. [PMID: 38100621 DOI: 10.1002/jmv.29312] [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: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
For the prevention of infectious diseases, knowledge about potential transmission routes is essential. Pathogens can be transmitted directly (i.e. respiratory droplets, hand-to-hand contact) or indirectly via contaminated surfaces (fomites). In particular, frequently touched objects/surfaces may serve as transmission vehicles for different clinically relevant bacterial, fungal, and viral pathogens. Banknotes and coins offer ample surface area and are frequently exchanged between individuals. Consequently, many concerns have been raised in the recent past, that banknotes and coins could serve as vectors for the transmission of disease-causing microorganisms. This review summarizes the latest research on the potential of paper currency and coins to serve as sources of pathogenic viral, bacterial, and fungal agents. In contrast to the current perception of banknotes and coins as important transmission vehicles, current evidence suggests, that banknotes and coins do not pose a particular risk of pathogen infection for the public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toni Luise Meister
- Department for Molecular and Medical Virology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Lisa Kirchhoff
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University Hospital of Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Yannick Brüggemann
- Department for Molecular and Medical Virology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
| | - Daniel Todt
- Department for Molecular and Medical Virology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
- European Virus Bioinformatics Center (EVBC), Jena, Germany
| | - Joerg Steinmann
- Institute of Medical Microbiology, University Hospital of Essen, Essen, Germany
- Institute of Clinical Hygiene, Medical Microbiology and Infectiology, General Hospital Nürnberg, Paracelsus Medical University, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Eike Steinmann
- Department for Molecular and Medical Virology, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, Germany
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12
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Chen S, Huang L, Cai D, Li B, Yang J. Association between meteorological factors and COVID-19: a systematic review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 33:1254-1268. [PMID: 35674116 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2022.2083090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The outbreak of coronavirus disease in 2019 has become a serious threat to human health. Whether meteorological conditions could influence the transmission and virulence of COVID-19 remains controversial. In this study, we systematically reviewed the impact of temperature and humidity on the replication, morbidity, and mortality of COVID-19. We also discussed the main factors underlying the inconsistency across studies. Pubmed, Web of Science, Embase, and Scopus were used to identify papers published up to 7 December 2020. We initially identified 3515 papers, and 28 articles met the inclusion criteria after screening. Most studies showed high temperature and high humidity can partly reduce the reproduction, morbidity, and mortality of COVID-19. But the rest papers failed to identify a significant association. The discrepant results may be related to the difference in the climate context, study design, exposure assessment, policy intervention, socioeconomic status, and public health service.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sujuan Chen
- Institute for Environmental and Climate Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lin Huang
- Institute for Environmental and Climate Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Dongjie Cai
- Institute for Environmental and Climate Research, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Bixia Li
- College of Computer, Guangdong University of Science & Technology, Dongguan, China
| | - Jun Yang
- School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, China
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13
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Carrazana E, Ruiz-Gil T, Fujiyoshi S, Tanaka D, Noda J, Maruyama F, Jorquera MA. Potential airborne human pathogens: A relevant inhabitant in built environments but not considered in indoor air quality standards. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 901:165879. [PMID: 37517716 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.165879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Potential airborne human pathogens (PAHPs) may be a relevant component of the air microbiome in built environments. Despite that PAHPs can cause infections, particularly in immunosuppressed patients at medical centers, they are scarcely considered in standards of indoor air quality (IAQ) worldwide. Here, we reviewed the current information on microbial aerosols (bacteria, fungal and viruses) and PAHPs in different types of built environments (e.g., medical center, industrial and non-industrial), including the main factors involved in their dispersion, the methodologies used in their study and their associated biological risks. Our analysis identified the human occupancy and ventilation systems as the primary sources of dispersal of microbial aerosols indoors. We also observed temperature and relative humidity as relevant physicochemical factors regulating the dispersion and viability of some PAHPs. Our analysis revealed that some PAHPs can survive and coexist in different environments while other PAHPs are limited or specific for an environment. In relation to the methodologies (conventional or molecular) the nature of PAHPs and sampling type are pivotal. In this context, indoors air-borne viruses are the less studies because their small size, environmental lability, and absence of efficient sampling techniques and universal molecular markers for their study. Finally, it is noteworthy that PAHPs are not commonly considered and included in IAQ standards worldwide, and when they are included, the total abundance is the single parameter considered and biological risks is excluded. Therefore, we propose a revision, design and establishment of public health policies, regulations and IAQ standards, considering the interactions of diverse factors, such as nature of PAHPs, human occupancy and type of built environments where they develop.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth Carrazana
- Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias Mención Biología Celular y Molecular Aplicada, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile; Laboratorio de Ecología Microbiana Aplicada, Departamento de Ciencias Químicas y Recursos Naturales, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Tay Ruiz-Gil
- Laboratorio de Ecología Microbiana Aplicada, Departamento de Ciencias Químicas y Recursos Naturales, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile; Programa de Doctorado en Ciencias de Recursos Naturales, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - So Fujiyoshi
- Center for Holobiome and Built Environment (CHOBE), Hiroshima University, Japan; Microbial Genomics and Ecology, PHIS, The IDEC institute, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Daisuke Tanaka
- School of Science Academic Assembly, University of Toyama, Toyama, Japan
| | - Jun Noda
- Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Rakuno Gakuen University, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Fumito Maruyama
- Center for Holobiome and Built Environment (CHOBE), Hiroshima University, Japan; Microbial Genomics and Ecology, PHIS, The IDEC institute, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Milko A Jorquera
- Laboratorio de Ecología Microbiana Aplicada, Departamento de Ciencias Químicas y Recursos Naturales, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile; Center for Holobiome and Built Environment (CHOBE), Hiroshima University, Japan; Network for Extreme Environment Research (NEXER), Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.
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14
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Kong ZM, Sandhu HS, Qiu L, Wu J, Tian WJ, Chi XJ, Tao Z, Yang CFJ, Wang XJ. Virus Dynamics and Decay in Evaporating Human Saliva Droplets on Fomites. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:17737-17750. [PMID: 35904357 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c02311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The transmission of most respiratory pathogens, including SARS-CoV-2, occurs via virus-containing respiratory droplets, and thus, factors that affect virus viability in droplet residues on surfaces are of critical medical and public health importance. Relative humidity (RH) is known to play a role in virus survival, with a U-shaped relationship between RH and virus viability. The mechanisms affecting virus viability in droplet residues, however, are unclear. This study examines the structure and evaporation dynamics of virus-containing saliva droplets on fomites and their impact on virus viability using four model viruses: vesicular stomatitis virus, herpes simplex virus 1, Newcastle disease virus, and coronavirus HCoV-OC43. The results support the hypothesis that the direct contact of antiviral proteins and virions within the "coffee ring" region of the droplet residue gives rise to the observed U-shaped relationship between virus viability and RH. Viruses survive much better at low and high RH, and their viability is substantially reduced at intermediate RH. A phenomenological theory explaining this phenomenon and a quantitative model analyzing and correlating the experimentally measured virus survivability are developed on the basis of the observations. The mechanisms by which RH affects virus viability are explored. At intermediate RH, antiviral proteins have optimal influence on virions because of their largest contact time and overlap area, which leads to the lowest level of virus activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zi-Meng Kong
- Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Harpal Singh Sandhu
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40202, United States
- Department of Bioengineering, J.B. Speed School of Engineering, University of Louisville, Louisville, Kentucky 40292, United States
| | - Lu Qiu
- School of Energy and Power Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jicheng Wu
- School of Energy and Power Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Wen-Jun Tian
- Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
| | - Xiao-Jing Chi
- Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing 100005, China
| | - Zhi Tao
- School of Energy and Power Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Chi-Fu Jeffrey Yang
- Department of Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215, United States
| | - Xiao-Jia Wang
- Key Laboratory of Animal Epidemiology of the Ministry of Agriculture, College of Veterinary Medicine, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China
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15
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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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16
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Weber DJ, Rutala WA, Sickbert-Bennett E. Emerging infectious diseases, focus on infection prevention, environmental survival and germicide susceptibility: SARS-CoV-2, Mpox, and Candida auris. Am J Infect Control 2023; 51:A22-A34. [PMID: 37890950 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2023.02.006] [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: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND New and emerging infectious diseases continue to represent a public health threat. Emerging infectious disease threats include pathogens increasing in range (eg, Mpox), zoonotic microbes jumping species lines to cause sustained infections in humans via person-to-person transmission (SARS-CoV-2) and multidrug-resistant pathogens (eg, Candida auris). MATERIALS AND METHODS We searched the published English literature and reviewed the selected articles on SARS-CoV-2, Mpox, and Candida auris with a focus on environmental survival, contamination of the patient's hospital environment, susceptibility of the pathogen to antiseptics and disinfectants and infection prevention recommendations. RESULTS All three pathogens (ie, SARS-CoV-2, Mpox, and Candida auris) can survive on surfaces for minutes to hours and for Mpox and C auris for days. Currently available antiseptics (eg, 70%-90% alcohol hand hygiene products) are active against SARS-CoV-2, Mpox and C auris. The U.S Environmental Protection Agency provides separate lists of surface disinfectants active against SARS-CoV-2, Mpox, and C auris. DISCUSSION The risk of environment-to-patient transmission of SARS-CoV-2, Mpox and Candida auris, is very low, low-moderate and high, respectively. In the absence of appropriate patient isolation and use of personal protection equipment, the risk of patient-to-health care provider transmission of SARS-CoV-2, Mpox, and C auris is high, moderate and low, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Appropriate patient isolation, use of personal protective equipment by health care personnel, hand hygiene, and surface disinfection can protect patients and health care personnel from acquiring SARS-CoV-2, Mpox, and C auris from infected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Weber
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC; Department of Infection Prevention, UNC Medical Center, Chapel Hill, NC; Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC.
| | - William A Rutala
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
| | - Emily Sickbert-Bennett
- Division of Infectious Diseases, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC; Department of Infection Prevention, UNC Medical Center, Chapel Hill, NC; Department of Epidemiology, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
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17
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Ouyang L, Wang N, Irudayaraj J, Majima T. Virus on surfaces: Chemical mechanism, influence factors, disinfection strategies, and implications for virus repelling surface design. Adv Colloid Interface Sci 2023; 320:103006. [PMID: 37778249 DOI: 10.1016/j.cis.2023.103006] [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: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 09/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
While SARS-CoV-2 is generally under control, the question of variants and infections still persists. Fundamental information on how the virus interacts with inanimate surfaces commonly found in our daily life and when in contact with the skin will be helpful in developing strategies to inhibit the spread of the virus. Here in, a critically important review of current understanding of the interaction between virus and surface is summarized from chemistry point-of-view. The Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek and extended Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek theories to model virus attachments on surfaces are introduced, along with the interaction type and strength, and quantification of each component. The virus survival and transfer are affected by a combination of biological, physical, and chemical parameters, as well as environmental parameters. The surface properties for virus and virus survival on typical surfaces such as metals, plastics, and glass are summarized. Attention is also paid to the transfer of virus to/from surfaces and skin. Typical virus disinfection strategies utilizing heat, light, chemicals, and ozone are discussed together with their disinfection mechanism. In the last section, design principles for virus repelling surface chemistry such as surperhydrophobic or surperhydrophilic surfaces are also introduced, to demonstrate how the integration of surface property control and advanced material fabrication can lead to the development of functional surfaces for mitigating the effect of viral infection upon contact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Ouyang
- State Key Laboratory of Biogeology and Environmental Geology, Faculty of Materials Science and Chemistry, China University of Geosciences, Wuhan 430074, China.
| | - Nan Wang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic Chemistry & Materia Medica, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Joseph Irudayaraj
- Department of Bioengineering, College of Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61801, United States
| | - Tetsuro Majima
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Bioinorganic Chemistry & Materia Medica, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430074, China; The Institute of Scientific and Industrial Research (SANKEN), Osaka University, Ibaraki, Osaka 567-0047, Japan
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18
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Ashokkumar S, Kaushik NK, Han I, Uhm HS, Park JS, Cho GS, Oh YJ, Shin YO, Choi EH. Persistence of Coronavirus on Surface Materials and Its Control Measures Using Nonthermal Plasma and Other Agents. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:14106. [PMID: 37762409 PMCID: PMC10531613 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241814106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has been responsible for the initiation of the global pandemic since 2020. The virus spreads through contaminated air particles, fomite, and surface-contaminated porous (i.e., paper, wood, and masks) and non-porous (i.e., plastic, stainless steel, and glass) materials. The persistence of viruses on materials depends on porosity, adsorption, evaporation, isoelectric point, and environmental conditions, such as temperature, pH, and relative humidity. Disinfection techniques are crucial for preventing viral contamination on animated and inanimate surfaces. Currently, there are few effective methodologies for preventing SARS-CoV-2 and other coronaviruses without any side effects. Before infection can occur, measures must be taken to prevent the persistence of the coronavirus on the surfaces of both porous and non-porous inanimate materials. This review focuses on coronavirus persistence in surface materials (inanimate) and control measures. Viruses are inactivated through chemical and physical methods; the chemical methods particularly include alcohol, chlorine, and peroxide, whereas temperature, pH, humidity, ultraviolet irradiation (UV), gamma radiation, X-rays, ozone, and non-thermal, plasma-generated reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) are physical methods.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Yung Oh Shin
- Plasma Bioscience Research Center, Kwangwoon University, Seoul 01897, Republic of Korea
| | - Eun Ha Choi
- Plasma Bioscience Research Center, Kwangwoon University, Seoul 01897, Republic of Korea
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19
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Urmi UL, Attard S, Vijay AK, Willcox MDP, Kumar N, Islam S, Kuppusamy R. Antiviral Activity of Anthranilamide Peptidomimetics against Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and a Coronavirus. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1436. [PMID: 37760732 PMCID: PMC10525570 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12091436] [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: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/10/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The development of potent antiviral agents is of utmost importance to combat the global burden of viral infections. Traditional antiviral drug development involves targeting specific viral proteins, which may lead to the emergence of resistant strains. To explore alternative strategies, we investigated the antiviral potential of antimicrobial peptidomimetic compounds. In this study, we evaluated the antiviral potential of 17 short anthranilamide-based peptidomimetic compounds against two viruses: Murine hepatitis virus 1 (MHV-1) which is a surrogate of human coronaviruses and herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1). The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of these compounds were determined in vitro to assess their potency as antiviral agents. Compounds 11 and 14 displayed the most potent inhibitory effects with IC50 values of 2.38 μM, and 6.3 μM against MHV-1 while compounds 9 and 14 showed IC50 values of 14.8 μM and 13 μM against HSV-1. Multiple antiviral assessments and microscopic images obtained through transmission electron microscopy (TEM) collectively demonstrated that these compounds exert a direct influence on the viral envelope. Based on this outcome, it can be concluded that peptidomimetic compounds could offer a new approach for the development of potent antiviral agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umme Laila Urmi
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (A.K.V.); (S.I.); (R.K.)
| | - Samuel Attard
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (S.A.); (N.K.)
| | - Ajay Kumar Vijay
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (A.K.V.); (S.I.); (R.K.)
| | - Mark D. P. Willcox
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (A.K.V.); (S.I.); (R.K.)
| | - Naresh Kumar
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (S.A.); (N.K.)
| | - Salequl Islam
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (A.K.V.); (S.I.); (R.K.)
- Department of Microbiology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar 1342, Bangladesh
| | - Rajesh Kuppusamy
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (A.K.V.); (S.I.); (R.K.)
- School of Chemistry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia; (S.A.); (N.K.)
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20
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Zeng L, Li J, Lv M, Li Z, Yao L, Gao J, Wu Q, Wang Z, Yang X, Tang G, Qu G, Jiang G. Environmental Stability and Transmissibility of Enveloped Viruses at Varied Animate and Inanimate Interfaces. ENVIRONMENT & HEALTH (WASHINGTON, D.C.) 2023; 1:15-31. [PMID: 37552709 PMCID: PMC10255587 DOI: 10.1021/envhealth.3c00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
Enveloped viruses have been the leading causative agents of viral epidemics in the past decade, including the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 outbreak. In epidemics caused by enveloped viruses, direct contact is a common route of infection, while indirect transmissions through the environment also contribute to the spread of the disease, although their significance remains controversial. Bridging the knowledge gap regarding the influence of interfacial interactions on the persistence of enveloped viruses in the environment reveals the transmission mechanisms when the virus undergoes mutations and prevents excessive disinfection during viral epidemics. Herein, from the perspective of the driving force, partition efficiency, and viral survivability at interfaces, we summarize the viral and environmental characteristics that affect the environmental transmission of viruses. We expect to provide insights for virus detection, environmental surveillance, and disinfection to limit the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and
Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of
Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Junya Li
- College of Sciences, Northeastern
University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Meilin Lv
- College of Sciences, Northeastern
University, Shenyang 110819, China
| | - Zikang Li
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and
Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of
Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Linlin Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and
Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of
Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jie Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and
Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute
for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310000, China
| | - Qi Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and
Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute
for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310000, China
| | - Ziniu Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and
Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of
Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xinyue Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and
Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of
Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Gang Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and
Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- University of Chinese Academy of
Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guangbo Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and
Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute
for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310000, China
- Institute of Environment and Health,
Jianghan University, Wuhan 430056,
China
- University of Chinese Academy of
Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Guibin Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Chemistry and
Ecotoxicology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute
for Advanced Study, UCAS, Hangzhou 310000, China
- University of Chinese Academy of
Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
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21
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Barandongo ZR, Dolfi AC, Bruce SA, Rysava K, Huang YH, Joel H, Hassim A, Kamath PL, van Heerden H, Turner WC. The persistence of time: the lifespan of Bacillus anthracis spores in environmental reservoirs. Res Microbiol 2023; 174:104029. [PMID: 36720294 DOI: 10.1016/j.resmic.2023.104029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Anthrax is a lethal bacterial zoonosis primarily affecting herbivorous wildlife and livestock. Upon host death Bacillus anthracis vegetative cells form spores capable of surviving for years in soil. Anthrax transmission requires host exposure to large spore doses. Thus, conditions that facilitate higher spore concentrations or promote spore survival will increase the probability that a pathogen reservoir infects future hosts. We investigated abiotic and pathogen genomic variation in relation to spore concentrations in surface soils (0-1 cm depth) at 40 plains zebra (Equus quagga) anthrax carcass sites in Namibia. Specifically, how initial spore concentrations and spore survival were affected by seasonality associated with the timing of host mortality, local soil characteristics, and pathogen genomic variation. Zebras dying of anthrax in wet seasons-the peak season for anthrax in Etosha National Park-had soil spore concentrations 1.36 orders of magnitude higher than those that died in dry seasons. No other variables considered affected spore concentrations, and spore survival rates did not differ among sites. Surface soils at these pathogen reservoirs remained culture positive for a range of 3.8-10.4 years after host death. Future research could evaluate if seasonal patterns in spore concentrations are driven by differences in sporulation success or levels of terminal bacteremia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zoë R Barandongo
- Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
| | - Amélie C Dolfi
- Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
| | - Spencer A Bruce
- Department of Biological Sciences, State University of New York, Albany, NY 12222, USA.
| | - Kristyna Rysava
- Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
| | - Yen-Hua Huang
- Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
| | - Hendrina Joel
- Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Science, University of Namibia, Private Bag 13301, Windhoek, Namibia.
| | - Ayesha Hassim
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Pauline L Kamath
- School of Food and Agriculture, University of Maine, Orono, ME, USA.
| | - Henriette van Heerden
- Department of Veterinary Tropical Diseases, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.
| | - Wendy C Turner
- U.S. Geological Survey, Wisconsin Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
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22
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Spena A, Palombi L, Carestia M, Spena VA, Biso F. SARS-CoV-2 Survival on Surfaces. Measurements Optimisation for an Enthalpy-Based Assessment of the Risk. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6169. [PMID: 37372756 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20126169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
The present work, based on the results found in the literature, yields a consistent model of SARS-CoV-2 survival on surfaces as environmental conditions, such as temperature and relative humidity, change simultaneously. The Enthalpy method, which has recently been successfully proposed to investigate the viability of airborne viruses using a holistic approach, is found to allow us to take a reasoned reading of the data available on surfaces in the literature. This leads us to identify the domain of conditions of lowest SARS-CoV-2 viability, in a specific enthalpy range between 50 and 60 kJ/Kgdry-air. This range appears well-superimposed with the results we previously obtained from analyses of coronaviruses' behaviour in aerosols, and may be helpful in dealing with the spread of infections. To steer future investigations, shortcomings and weaknesses emerging from the assessment of viral measurement usually carried out on surfaces are also discussed in detail. Once demonstrated that current laboratory procedures suffer from both high variability and poor standardisation, targeted implementations of standards and improvement of protocols for future investigations are then proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Spena
- Department of Enterprise Engineering, Tor Vergata University of Rome, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Leonardo Palombi
- Catholic University of "Our Lady of Good Counsel", 1001 Tirana, Albania
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University of Rome, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Mariachiara Carestia
- Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, Tor Vergata University of Rome, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Andrea Spena
- Department of Astronautical, Electrical and Energy Engineering, Sapienza University of Rome, 00184 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Biso
- Department of Enterprise Engineering, Tor Vergata University of Rome, 00133 Rome, Italy
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23
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Wang B, Chen L, Sui H, Dong X, Huang H, Wang X, Xiao Y, Xiao X, Wu C, Gao H, Shu Y, Ren L, Wang J. The Environmental Stability of SARS-CoV-2 Variants Omicron BA.1 and BA.5 on the Surfaces of Widely Used Transport Packaging Materials. Microbiol Spectr 2023; 11:e0488122. [PMID: 37092817 PMCID: PMC10269784 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.04881-22] [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: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The increased transmissibility of SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern (VOCs) has raised questions regarding the environmental stability of these viruses. Although a prolonged survival time has been reported for SARS-CoV-2, how long new variants can persist on contaminated surfaces and how environmental factors affect the persistence time are not fully characterized. The present study provides a comprehensive assessment of the stability of Omicron variants BA.1 and BA.5, which are currently circulating strains, on the surfaces of widely used transport packaging materials. By monitoring viable virus detection over a 7-day period under different environmental conditions, it was found that the environmental stability of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variants depended heavily on the surface type, temperature, and virus concentration. In addition, virus nucleic acid exhibited high stability on the material surface independent of whether viable virus was detected. These findings provide useful information for logistics practitioners and the general public to appropriately deal with transport items under different conditions to minimize the risk of epidemic transmission. IMPORTANCE This study shows the environmental stability of SARS-CoV-2 Variants Omicron BA.1 and BA.5 on surfaces of widely used transport packaging materials. The findings demonstrate that the environmental stability of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variants varies based on material type. The viability of SARS-CoV-2 on material surfaces depends heavily on temperature and viral titer. Low temperatures and high viral titers promote virus survival. Moreover, in contrast to virus viability, virus nucleic acid exhibits high stability on the surfaces of widely used materials, making the detection of virus nucleic acid unsuitable for evaluating the risk of epidemic transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bei Wang
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens and Christophe Mérieux Laboratory, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Lan Chen
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens and Christophe Mérieux Laboratory, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hongtao Sui
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojing Dong
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens and Christophe Mérieux Laboratory, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - He Huang
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens and Christophe Mérieux Laboratory, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xinming Wang
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens and Christophe Mérieux Laboratory, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Xiao
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens and Christophe Mérieux Laboratory, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease Pathogenomics, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xia Xiao
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens and Christophe Mérieux Laboratory, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Wu
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens and Christophe Mérieux Laboratory, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hong Gao
- Key Laboratory of Human Disease Comparative Medicine, Chinese Ministry of Health, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Models of Emerging and Remerging Infectious Diseases, Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Comparative Medicine Center, Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yuelong Shu
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Lili Ren
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens and Christophe Mérieux Laboratory, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease Pathogenomics, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jianwei Wang
- National Health Commission Key Laboratory of Systems Biology of Pathogens and Christophe Mérieux Laboratory, Institute of Pathogen Biology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory of Respiratory Disease Pathogenomics, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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24
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Talukder P, Saha A, Roy S, Ghosh G, Roy DD, Barua S. Drugs for COVID-19 Treatment: A New Challenge. Appl Biochem Biotechnol 2023; 195:3653-3670. [PMID: 36961509 PMCID: PMC10037400 DOI: 10.1007/s12010-023-04439-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
COVID-19 infection is a new disease and our knowledge is limited; day in and day out more and more interesting yet diverse observations are reported by the different research groups from different corners of the world. So, there is an urgent requirement of the invention of some effective and efficient drugs that can carry out the end of the deadly viral infection. Throughout the world, there have been many efforts carried out in different labs to invent such a drug and also identifying any pre-existing drugs which can carry out the killing of the virus. In this review, an effort has been made to understand the potential drugs which can be used against the SARS-CoV-2 viral infection. Again, the strategies on the current and the future drug discovery mechanisms against the SARS-CoV-2 are also mentioned. The different drugs made and the drugs re-used and also the drugs which are in the making process in different research laboratories across the world are also mentioned. To combat this unexpected crisis, we still need some more efforts from the different scientific communities around the world for finding a cure against this viral infection and this is needed to be done for the prevention of more loss of human life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pratik Talukder
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Engineering and Management, Kolkata University Area, Plot, Street Number 03, Action Area III, B/5, Newtown, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700156, India.
| | - Arunima Saha
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Engineering and Management, Kolkata University Area, Plot, Street Number 03, Action Area III, B/5, Newtown, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700156, India
| | - Sohini Roy
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Engineering and Management, Kolkata University Area, Plot, Street Number 03, Action Area III, B/5, Newtown, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700156, India
| | - Gargi Ghosh
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Engineering and Management, Kolkata University Area, Plot, Street Number 03, Action Area III, B/5, Newtown, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700156, India
| | - Debshikha Dutta Roy
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Engineering and Management, Kolkata University Area, Plot, Street Number 03, Action Area III, B/5, Newtown, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700156, India
| | - Snejuti Barua
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Engineering and Management, Kolkata University Area, Plot, Street Number 03, Action Area III, B/5, Newtown, Kolkata, West Bengal, 700156, India
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25
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Tarannum T, Ahmed S. Recent development in antiviral surfaces: Impact of topography and environmental conditions. Heliyon 2023; 9:e16698. [PMID: 37260884 PMCID: PMC10227326 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e16698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Revised: 05/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The transmission of viruses is largely dependent on contact with contaminated virus-laden communal surfaces. While frequent surface disinfection and antiviral coating techniques are put forth by researchers as a plan of action to tackle transmission in dire situations like the Covid-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 virus, these procedures are often laborious, time-consuming, cost-intensive, and toxic. Hence, surface topography-mediated antiviral surfaces have been gaining more attention in recent times. Although bioinspired hydrophobic antibacterial nanopatterned surfaces mimicking the natural sources is a very prevalent and successful strategy, the antiviral prospect of these surfaces is yet to be explored. Few recent studies have explored the potential of nanopatterned antiviral surfaces. In this review, we highlighted surface properties that have an impact on virus attachment and persistence, particularly focusing and emphasizing on the prospect of the nanotextured surface with enhanced properties to be used as antiviral surface. In addition, recent developments in surface nanopatterning techniques depending on the nano-scaled dimensions have been discussed. The impacts of environments and surface topology on virus inactivation have also been reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanjina Tarannum
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka-1000. Bangladesh
| | - Shoeb Ahmed
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Bangladesh University of Engineering and Technology, Dhaka-1000. Bangladesh
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26
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Roy I, Chapungu L, Nyambiya I. Seasonality, mass vaccination and critical policy evaluation on global exit strategy of COVID-19 crisis. PHYSICS AND CHEMISTRY OF THE EARTH (2002) 2023; 130:103388. [PMID: 36923070 PMCID: PMC9985521 DOI: 10.1016/j.pce.2023.103388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
There is a strong coordinated effort by vaccination groups all over the world to put an end to the current crisis of COVID-19. Now sufficient data are available to analyse and compare some results to explore the aftereffects of vaccination. Some influence variables on transmissions of the disease were discussed e.g., mass vaccination, lockdown and seasonality. Most studies covered here are up to the beginning of July 2022, while some analyses focused on the earlier period of mass vaccination. Well established, simple statistical techniques to evaluate results were presented those used open data sources of authoritative bodies. Some comparisons between vaccinated vs. unvaccinated were also discussed based on data from UK Government Health Security Agency (UHSA). In terms of mass vaccination, adverse reactions after vaccination received attention, as health and safety issues of the general public are of prime importance. Apart from direct side effects, the secondary effect of mass vaccination needs attention too. After the initiation of the vaccination programme, almost all countries experienced a sudden surge in transmission and most countries had to impose strict lockdown measures. Many countries, with a low prevalence of disease, suddenly showed a steep jump and some countries even followed a synchronized pattern between the rate of transmissions and the variation of vaccine doses. Time series analyses and bar diagram presentations were able to capture those features. In that context, fast mutation of the virus and new variants after mass vaccination and possible mechanisms/consequences were also attended. To understand the effect of seasonality, similarities between COVID-19 and the seasonal Flu are discussed for Europe and US to gain useful insight. Using time series analyses and spatial plots of regional temperature composites we showed, like Flu, seasonality played a dominant role in transmissions of COVID-19 in the Europe. Regulations of vaccine dose and policy implication were explored too. From 22nd December 2021, global vaccine doses were reduced substantially, which followed a dramatic reduction in cases and thereafter deaths with around one month's lag between each. As strong dependency on seasonality is noticed in certain countries and observing that regulation of vaccine doses has roles in modulating the transmission with certain lags, globally as well as regionally, our results have policy implications for the management of COVID. Debating, questioning and criticism are always the foundation of great science and the major pillars of its progress. Following that objective, it is an effort to explore pragmatically, supported by scientific analyses, areas relating to the effectiveness of the COVID-19 vaccine and the exit strategy via the pathway of vaccination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indrani Roy
- University College London (UCL), Gower St, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Lazarus Chapungu
- Exxaro Chair in Climate and Sustainability Transitions, University of South Africa, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Isaac Nyambiya
- Department of Physics, Geography & Environmental Science, School of Natural Sciences, Great Zimbabwe University, Off Great Zimbabwe Road Box 1235, Masvingo, Zimbabwe
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27
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Bandara S, Oishi W, Kadoya SS, Sano D. Decay rate estimation of respiratory viruses in aerosols and on surfaces under different environmental conditions. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2023; 251:114187. [PMID: 37210848 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2023.114187] [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: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Majority of the viral outbreaks are super-spreading events established within 2-10 h, dependent on a critical time interval for successful transmission between humans, which is governed by the decay rates of viruses. To evaluate the decay rates of respiratory viruses over a short span, we calculated their decay rate values for various surfaces and aerosols. We applied Bayesian regression and ridge regression and determined the best estimation for respiratory viruses, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), middle east respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), influenza viruses, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV); the decay rate values in aerosols for these viruses were 4.83 ± 5.70, 0.40 ± 0.24, 0.11 ± 0.04, 2.43 ± 5.94, and 1.00 ± 0.50 h-1, respectively. The highest decay rate values for each virus type differed according to the surface type. According to the model performance criteria, the Bayesian regression model was better for SARS-CoV-2 and influenza viruses, whereas ridge regression was better for SARS-CoV and MERS-CoV. A simulation using a better estimation will help us find effective non-pharmaceutical interventions to control virus transmissions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sewwandi Bandara
- Department of Frontier Science for Advanced Environment, Graduate School of Environment Studies, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8572, Japan
| | - Wakana Oishi
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8579, Japan
| | - Syun-Suke Kadoya
- Department of Urban Engineering, School of Engineering, The University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8654, Japan
| | - Daisuke Sano
- Department of Frontier Science for Advanced Environment, Graduate School of Environment Studies, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8572, Japan; Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku University, Sendai, Miyagi, 980-8579, Japan.
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28
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Gu X, Cao T, Mou J, Liu J. Water bath is more efficient than hot air oven at thermal inactivation of coronavirus. Virol J 2023; 20:84. [PMID: 37131169 PMCID: PMC10153051 DOI: 10.1186/s12985-023-02038-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thermal inactivation is a conventional and effective method of eliminating the infectivity of pathogens from specimens in clinical and biological laboratories, and reducing the risk of occupational exposure and environmental contamination. During the COVID-19 pandemic, specimens from patients and potentially infected individuals were heat treated and processed under BSL-2 conditions in a safe, cost-effective, and timely manner. The temperature and duration of heat treatment are optimized and standardized in the protocol according to the susceptibility of the pathogen and the impact on the integrity of the specimens, but the heating device is often undefined. Devices and medium transferring the thermal energy vary in heating rate, specific heat capacity, and conductivity, resulting in variations in efficiency and inactivation outcome that may compromise biosafety and downstream biological assays. METHODS We evaluated the water bath and hot air oven in terms of pathogen inactivation efficiency, which are the most commonly used inactivation devices in hospitals and biological laboratories. By evaluating the temperature equilibrium and viral titer elimination under various conditions, we studied the devices and their inactivation outcomes under identical treatment protocol, and to analyzed the factors, such as energy conductivity, specific heat capacity, and heating rate, underlying the inactivation efficiencies. RESULTS We compared thermal inactivation of coronavirus using different devices, and have found that the water bath was more efficient at reducing infectivity, with higher heat transfer and thermal equilibration than a forced hot air oven. In addition to the efficiency, the water bath showed relative consistency in temperature equilibration of samples of different volumes, reduced the need for prolonged heating, and eliminated the risk of pathogen spread by forced airflow. CONCLUSIONS Our data support the proposal to define the heating device in the thermal inactivation protocol and in the specimen management policy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinxia Gu
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Vaccine, West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 88 Keyuan S. Rd, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Ting Cao
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Vaccine, West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 88 Keyuan S. Rd, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jun Mou
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Vaccine, West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 88 Keyuan S. Rd, Chengdu, 610041, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Laboratory of Infectious Diseases and Vaccine, West China School of Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, 88 Keyuan S. Rd, Chengdu, 610041, China.
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29
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Anderson CE, Wolfe MK, Boehm AB. Enveloped and non-enveloped virus survival on microfiber towels. PeerJ 2023; 11:e15202. [PMID: 37073274 PMCID: PMC10106082 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.15202] [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: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Handwashing is an important intervention which can reduce indirect disease transmission, however soap and water for handwashing purposes is not available in some low-resource regions. When handwashing with soap and water is not possible, individuals may use alternatives such as the Supertowel (a microfiber towel with an antimicrobial coating). Testing of viral inactivation as a result of antimicrobial treatment on the Supertowel, however, has been limited. The goal of this study is to provide information about the performance of the Supertowel's antimicrobial treatment against viruses, which will help inform the use of the towels as handwashing alternatives. Methods We seeded the Supertowel and a regular microfiber towel with two bacteriophages (enveloped Phi6 and non-enveloped MS2) and monitored viral inactivation over time. Additionally, we assessed if temperature, humidity, whether the towel was initially wet or dry, or virus type had an effect on viral decay rate constants. Virus concentrations were measured repeatedly over 24 h. Results We found that neither towel type (whether the towel was a Supertowel or a regular microfiber towel) nor humidity were significant variables in our model of decay rate constants (P = 0.06 and P = 0.22, respectively). We found that the variables of temperature, whether towels were initially wet versus dry, and virus type were significantly different from 0, suggesting that these variables explained variance in the decay rate constant (P = 6.55 × 10-13, P = 0.001, and P < 2 × 10-16, respectively). Higher temperatures, dry towels, and enveloped viruses all resulted in increases in the decay rate constant. Conclusions Viruses seeded onto a Supertowel decay similar to viruses seeded onto a regular towel indicating that the virucidal potential of the Supertowel is minimal.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marlene K. Wolfe
- Stanford University, Stanford, CA, United States of America
- Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States of America
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30
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Neisi A, Goudarzi G, Mohammadi MJ, Tahmasebi Y, Rahim F, Baboli Z, Yazdani M, Sorooshian A, Attar SA, Angali KA, Alam K, Ahmadian M, Farhadi M. Association of the corona virus (Covid-19) epidemic with environmental risk factors. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:60314-60325. [PMID: 37022543 PMCID: PMC10078041 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-26647-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
The current outbreak of the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 (coronavirus disease 2019; previously 2019-nCoV), epicenter in Hubei Province (Wuhan), People's Republic of China, has spread too many other countries. The transmission of the corona virus occurs when people are in the incubation stage and do not have any symptoms. Therefore, the role of environmental factors such as temperature and wind speed becomes very important. The study of Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) indicates that there is a significant relationship between temperature and virus transmission and three important factors, namely temperature, humidity and wind speed, cause SARS transmission. Daily data on the incidence and mortality of Covid-19 disease were collected from World Health Organization (WHO) website and World Meter website (WMW) for several major cities in Iran and the world. Data were collected from February 2020 to September 2021. Meteorological data including temperature, air pressure, wind speed, dew point and air quality index (AQI) index are extracted from the website of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) and the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) sensor. Statistical analysis carried out for significance relationships. The correlation coefficient between the number of infected people in one day and the environmental variables in the countries was different from each other. The relationship between AQI and number of infected was significant in all cities. In Canberra, Madrid and Paris, a significant inverse relationship was observed between the number of infected people in one day and wind speed. There is a significant positive relationship between the number of infected people in a day and the dew point in the cities of Canberra, Wellington and Washington. The relationship between the number of infected people in one day and Pressure was significantly reversed in Madrid and Washington, but positive in Canberra, Brasilia, Paris and Wuhan. There was significant relationship between Dew point and prevalence. Wind speed showed a significant relationship in USA, Madrid and Paris. AQI was strongly associated with the prevalence of covid19. The purpose of this study is to investigate some environmental factors in the transmission of the corona virus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdolkazem Neisi
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Air Pollution and Respiratory Diseases Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Goudarzi
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Air Pollution and Respiratory Diseases Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Javad Mohammadi
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Air Pollution and Respiratory Diseases Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Environmental Technologies Research Center (ETRC), Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Yasser Tahmasebi
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Public Health and Environmental Technologies Research Center (ETRC), Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Fakher Rahim
- Thalassemia & Hemoglobinopathy Research Center, Health Research Institute, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Zeinab Baboli
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Behbahan Faculty of Medical Sciences, Behbahan, Iran
| | - Mohsen Yazdani
- Department of Environmental Health, School of Nursing, Torbat Jaam Faculty of Medical Sciences, Torbat Jaam, Iran
| | - Armin Sorooshian
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ USA
| | - Somayeh Alizade Attar
- Department of Environmental Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Kambiz Ahmadi Angali
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Health, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Khan Alam
- Department of Physics, University of Peshawar, Peshawar, 25120 Pakistan
| | - Maryam Ahmadian
- Department of Biostatistics, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Majid Farhadi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
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31
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Balboni E, Filippini T, Rothman KJ, Costanzini S, Bellino S, Pezzotti P, Brusaferro S, Ferrari F, Orsini N, Teggi S, Vinceti M. The influence of meteorological factors on COVID-19 spread in Italy during the first and second wave. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 228:115796. [PMID: 37019296 PMCID: PMC10069087 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.115796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The relation between meteorological factors and COVID-19 spread remains uncertain, particularly with regard to the role of temperature, relative humidity and solar ultraviolet (UV) radiation. To assess this relation, we investigated disease spread within Italy during 2020. The pandemic had a large and early impact in Italy, and during 2020 the effects of vaccination and viral variants had not yet complicated the dynamics. We used non-linear, spline-based Poisson regression of modeled temperature, UV and relative humidity, adjusting for mobility patterns and additional confounders, to estimate daily rates of COVID-19 new cases, hospital and intensive care unit admissions, and deaths during the two waves of the pandemic in Italy during 2020. We found little association between relative humidity and COVID-19 endpoints in both waves, whereas UV radiation above 40 kJ/m2 showed a weak inverse association with hospital and ICU admissions in the first wave, and a stronger relation with all COVID-19 endpoints in the second wave. Temperature above 283 K (10 °C/50 °F) showed a strong non-linear negative relation with COVID-19 endpoints, with inconsistent relations below this cutpoint in the two waves. Given the biological plausibility of a relation between temperature and COVID-19, these data add support to the proposition that temperature above 283 K, and possibly high levels of solar UV radiation, reduced COVID-19 spread.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Balboni
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Section of Public Health, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Health Physics Unit, Modena Policlinico University Hospital, Modena, Italy
| | - Tommaso Filippini
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Section of Public Health, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; School of Public Health, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Kenneth J Rothman
- Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sofia Costanzini
- Department of Engineering 'Enzo Ferrari', University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Stefania Bellino
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizio Pezzotti
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvio Brusaferro
- Presidency, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy; Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | | | - Nicola Orsini
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Sergio Teggi
- Department of Engineering 'Enzo Ferrari', University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Marco Vinceti
- Environmental, Genetic and Nutritional Epidemiology Research Center (CREAGEN), Section of Public Health, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy; Department of Epidemiology, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA.
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Topaloglu MS, Sogut O, Az A, Ergenc H, Akdemir T, Dogan Y. The impact of meteorological factors on the spread of COVID-19. Niger J Clin Pract 2023; 26:485-490. [PMID: 37203114 DOI: 10.4103/njcp.njcp_591_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Background Clinical studies suggest that warmer climates slow the spread of viral infections. In addition, exposure to cold weakens human immunity. Aim This study describes the relationship between meteorological indicators, the number of cases, and mortality in patients with confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Patients and Methods This was a retrospective observational study. Adult patients who presented to the emergency department with confirmed COVID-19 were included in the study. Meteorological data [mean temperature, minimum (min) temperature, maximum (max) temperature, relative humidity, and wind speed] for the city of Istanbul were collected from the Istanbul Meteorology 1st Regional Directorate. Results The study population consisted of 169,058 patients. The highest number of patients were admitted in December (n = 21,610) and the highest number of deaths (n = 46) occurred in November. In a correlation analysis, a statistically significant, negative correlation was found between the number of COVID-19 patients and mean temperature (rho = -0.734, P < 0.001), max temperature (rho = -0.696, P < 0.001) or min temperature (rho = -0.748, P < 0.001). Besides, the total number of patients correlated significantly and positively with the mean relative humidity (rho = 0.399 and P = 0.012). The correlation analysis also showed a significant negative relationship between the mean, maximum, and min temperatures and the number of deaths and mortality. Conclusion Our results indicate an increased number of COVID-19 cases during the 39-week study period when the mean, max, and min temperatures were consistently low and the mean relative humidity was consistently high.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S Topaloglu
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Haseki Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - O Sogut
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Haseki Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - A Az
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Haseki Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - H Ergenc
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Haseki Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - T Akdemir
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Haseki Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Y Dogan
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Haseki Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Istanbul, Turkey
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Buschmann S, Hoffmann P, Agarwal A, Marwan N, Nocke T. GPU-based, interactive exploration of large spatiotemporal climate networks. CHAOS (WOODBURY, N.Y.) 2023; 33:043129. [PMID: 37097944 DOI: 10.1063/5.0131933] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
This paper introduces the Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)-based tool Geo-Temporal eXplorer (GTX), integrating a set of highly interactive techniques for visual analytics of large geo-referenced complex networks from the climate research domain. The visual exploration of these networks faces a multitude of challenges related to the geo-reference and the size of these networks with up to several million edges and the manifold types of such networks. In this paper, solutions for the interactive visual analysis for several distinct types of large complex networks will be discussed, in particular, time-dependent, multi-scale, and multi-layered ensemble networks. Custom-tailored for climate researchers, the GTX tool supports heterogeneous tasks based on interactive, GPU-based solutions for on-the-fly large network data processing, analysis, and visualization. These solutions are illustrated for two use cases: multi-scale climatic process and climate infection risk networks. This tool helps one to reduce the complexity of the highly interrelated climate information and unveils hidden and temporal links in the climate system, not available using standard and linear tools (such as empirical orthogonal function analysis).
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Buschmann
- Hasso Plattner Institute, University of Potsdam, Prof.-Dr.-Helmert-Str. 2-3, 14482 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Peter Hoffmann
- Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, Telegrafenberg, 14473 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Ankit Agarwal
- Department of Hydrology, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, Haridwar Highway, Roorkee, Uttarakhand 247667, India
| | - Norbert Marwan
- Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, Telegrafenberg, 14473 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Thomas Nocke
- Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research, Telegrafenberg, 14473 Potsdam, Germany
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Asa GA, Fauk NK, Ratu M, Dent E, Ward PR. Understanding actions and challenges in protecting older people during covid-19 pandemic in indonesia: A qualitative study with female caregivers. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0273761. [PMID: 36947503 PMCID: PMC10032487 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0273761] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 has rapidly impacted societies on a global scale, with older people among the most affected. To care for older people living in their own homes, female family caregivers play a pivotal role. The current study aimed to explore the actions of female family caregivers and the challenges they faced in taking care of older people living at homes during the COVID-19 pandemic in Belu district, Indonesia. This qualitative study involved twenty female family caregivers, who were recruited using a combination of purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Findings were grouped into two main categories: (i) actions of female family caregivers in taking care of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. These included limiting both visitations of extended family members and older adults' activities outside homes; explaining the virus to older adults and controlling their access to news, social media and smartphones; providing nutrition, supplement and maintaining daily diets; and (ii) challenges they faced in taking care of older adults included excessive fear of contracting COVID-19 and possibility of transmitting it to older people; feeling stressed; tired and overburdened. The study highlights the significant role family caregivers played to protect older people living at home. The findings can inform government to develop intervention programs that address and support the needs of both family caregivers and older people living at home.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gregorius Abanit Asa
- Research Centre for Public Health, Equity and Human Flourishing (PHEHF), Torrens University Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Sanggar Belajar Alternatif (SALT), Atambua, Nusa Tenggara Timur, Indonesia
| | - Nelsensius Klau Fauk
- Research Centre for Public Health, Equity and Human Flourishing (PHEHF), Torrens University Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Institute of Resource Governance and Social Change, Kupang, Indonesia
| | - Melkianus Ratu
- Program Studi Keperawatan, Universitas Timor, Timor Tengah Utara, Nusa Tenggara Timur, Indonesia
| | - Elsa Dent
- Research Centre for Public Health, Equity and Human Flourishing (PHEHF), Torrens University Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Paul Russell Ward
- Research Centre for Public Health, Equity and Human Flourishing (PHEHF), Torrens University Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Richter WR, Sunderman MM, Schaeufele DJ, Willenberg Z, Ratliff K, Calfee MW, Oudejans L. Evaluation of steam heat as a decontamination approach for SARS-CoV-2 when applied to common transit-related materials. J Appl Microbiol 2023; 134:lxad053. [PMID: 36906281 PMCID: PMC10257936 DOI: 10.1093/jambio/lxad053] [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: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
Abstract
AIMS The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of steam heat for inactivation of SARS-CoV-2 when applied to materials common in mass transit installations. METHODS AND RESULTS SARS CoV-2 (USA-WA1/2020) was resuspended in either cell culture media or synthetic saliva, inoculated (∼1 × 106 TCID50) onto porous and nonporous materials and subjected to steam inactivation efficacy tests as either wet or dried droplets. The inoculated test materials were exposed to steam heat ranging from 70°C to 90°C. The amount of infectious SARS-CoV-2 remaining after various exposure durations ranging from 1 to 60 s was assessed. Higher steam heat application resulted in higher inactivation rates at short contact times. Steam applied at 1-inch distance (∼90°C at the surface) resulted in complete inactivation for dry inoculum within 2 s of exposure (excluding two outliers of 19 test samples at the 5-s duration) and within 2-30 s of exposure for wet droplets. Increasing the distance to 2 inches (∼70°C) also increased the exposure time required to achieve complete inactivation to 15 or 30 s for materials inoculated with saliva or cell culture media, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Steam heat can provide high levels of decontamination (>3 log reduction) for transit-related materials contaminated with SARS-CoV-2 using a commercially available steam generator with a manageable exposure time of 2-5 s.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Katherine Ratliff
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, United States
| | - M. Worth Calfee
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, United States
| | - Lukas Oudejans
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Research and Development, Center for Environmental Solutions and Emergency Response, Research Triangle Park, NC 27711, United States
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Roy I. Combating COVID-19 crisis and exploring heat-based simple solutions. PHYSICS AND CHEMISTRY OF THE EARTH (2002) 2023; 129:103333. [PMID: 36466955 PMCID: PMC9708609 DOI: 10.1016/j.pce.2022.103333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Covid-19 pandemic affected whole of the world taking many lives and impacting the economy and mental health severely. Exit pathways via vaccination though ignited optimism initially but attenuated by the emergence of several new variants which are less sensitive to vaccines. Considering emergency situations, some urgent, simple heat-based solutions for the initial stages of the disease were also proposed at the beginning of pandemic and further elaborated here. Solutions were proposed based on science as follows: exploring results of statistical analyses on the global transmission of COVID-19; observed temperature-dependent behaviours of similar category viruses; temperature-based clinical trial experiments with similar category viruses; successful clinical trial experiments with heat-based intervention for COVID-19 patients; and finally, biological mechanism/response in human bodies to heat-based solution for COVID-19 from medical doctor's perspective. Solutions proposed are practically without side effects, can be even practised in own home and there is no vested interest involved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Indrani Roy
- University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BS, UK
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Nieto-Caballero M, Davis RD, Fuques E, Gomez OM, Huynh E, Handorean A, Ushijima S, Tolbert M, Hernandez M. Carbohydrate vitrification in aerosolized saliva is associated with the humidity-dependent infectious potential of airborne coronavirus. PNAS NEXUS 2023; 2:pgac301. [PMID: 36743472 PMCID: PMC9896139 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgac301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
An accepted murine analogue for the environmental behavior of human SARS coronaviruses was aerosolized in microdroplets of its culture media and saliva to observe the decay of its airborne infectious potential under relative humidity (RH) conditions relevant to conditioned indoor air. Contained in a dark, 10 m3 chamber maintained at 22°C, murine hepatitis virus (MHV) was entrained in artificial saliva particles that were aerosolized in size distributions that mimic SARS-CoV-2 virus expelled from infected humans' respiration. As judged by quantitative PCR, more than 95% of the airborne MHV aerosolized was recovered from microdroplets with mean aerodynamic diameters between 0.56 and 5.6 μm. As judged by its half-life, calculated from the median tissue culture infectious dose (TCID50), saliva was protective of airborne murine coronavirus through a RH range recommended for conditioned indoor air (60% < RH < 40%; average half-life = 60 minutes). However, its average half-life doubled to 120 minutes when RH was maintained at 25%. Saliva microaerosol was dominated by carbohydrates, which presented hallmarks of vitrification without efflorescence at low RH. These results suggest that dehydrating carbohydrates can affect the infectious potential coronaviruses exhibit while airborne, significantly extending their persistence under the drier humidity conditions encountered indoors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ryan D Davis
- Department of Chemistry, Trinity University, San Antonio, TX 78212, USA
- Materials Reliability Department, Sandia National Laboratories, Albuquerque, NM 82123, USA
| | - Eddie Fuques
- Department of Microbiology, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Odessa M Gomez
- Environmental Engineering Program, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Erik Huynh
- Department of Chemistry, Trinity University, San Antonio, TX 78212, USA
| | - Alina Handorean
- Departments of Engineering Design and Society and Civil and Environmental Engineering, Colorado School of Mines, Golden, CO 80401, USA
| | - Shuichi Ushijima
- Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences and Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Margaret Tolbert
- Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences and Department of Chemistry, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
| | - Mark Hernandez
- Environmental Engineering Program, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, USA
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Environmental Pollutants PM2.5, PM10, Nitrogen Dioxide (NO 2), and Ozone (O 3) Association with the Incidence of Monkeypox Cases in European Countries. J Trop Med 2023; 2023:9075358. [PMID: 36687338 PMCID: PMC9859703 DOI: 10.1155/2023/9075358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Monkeypox, also known as monkeypox disease, is caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV), which is a zoonotic infection. The swift spread of human monkeypox cases has caused an alarming situation worldwide. This novel study aimed to investigate the association of particulate matter air pollutants PM2.5, PM10, Nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and Ozone (O3) on the incidence of monkeypox cases from May 1, 2022, to July 15, 2022. Methods The data on air pollutants PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and O3 and monkeypox cases were recorded from the date of occurrence of the first case of monkeypox in the United Kingdom, Spain, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Portugal from May 1, 2022, to July 15, 2022. The daily concentrations of PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and O3 were recorded from the metrological website "Air Quality Index-AQI," and daily human monkeypox cases were recorded from the official website of "Our World in Data." The mean values along with simple, multiple, and Spearman Rho correlations were performed to investigate the relationship and strength of association between the concentrations of air pollutants and cases of monkeypox. Results The environmental pollutants PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and O3 were positively associated with monkeypox cases in the United Kingdom, Spain, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Portugal. The analysis further revealed that for each 10-unit increase in PM2.5, PM10, and NO2, levels, the number of monkeypox cases was significantly augmented by 29.6%, 9.7%, 13%, and 80.6%, respectively. Conclusions Environmental pollutants PM2.5, PM10, NO2, and O3 have been positively linked to the number of daily monkeypox cases in European countries. Environmental pollution is a risk factor for the increasing incidence of monkeypox daily cases. The regional and international authorities must implement policies to curtail air pollution to combat the cases of monkeypox in European countries and worldwide.
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Nottmeyer L, Armstrong B, Lowe R, Abbott S, Meakin S, O'Reilly KM, von Borries R, Schneider R, Royé D, Hashizume M, Pascal M, Tobias A, Vicedo-Cabrera AM, Lavigne E, Correa PM, Ortega NV, Kynčl J, Urban A, Orru H, Ryti N, Jaakkola J, Dallavalle M, Schneider A, Honda Y, Ng CFS, Alahmad B, Carrasco-Escobar G, Holobâc IH, Kim H, Lee W, Íñiguez C, Bell ML, Zanobetti A, Schwartz J, Scovronick N, Coélho MDSZS, Saldiva PHN, Diaz MH, Gasparrini A, Sera F. The association of COVID-19 incidence with temperature, humidity, and UV radiation - A global multi-city analysis. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 854:158636. [PMID: 36087670 PMCID: PMC9450475 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Accepted: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The associations between COVID-19 transmission and meteorological factors are scientifically debated. Several studies have been conducted worldwide, with inconsistent findings. However, often these studies had methodological issues, e.g., did not exclude important confounding factors, or had limited geographic or temporal resolution. Our aim was to quantify associations between temporal variations in COVID-19 incidence and meteorological variables globally. METHODS We analysed data from 455 cities across 20 countries from 3 February to 31 October 2020. We used a time-series analysis that assumes a quasi-Poisson distribution of the cases and incorporates distributed lag non-linear modelling for the exposure associations at the city-level while considering effects of autocorrelation, long-term trends, and day of the week. The confounding by governmental measures was accounted for by incorporating the Oxford Governmental Stringency Index. The effects of daily mean air temperature, relative and absolute humidity, and UV radiation were estimated by applying a meta-regression of local estimates with multi-level random effects for location, country, and climatic zone. RESULTS We found that air temperature and absolute humidity influenced the spread of COVID-19 over a lag period of 15 days. Pooling the estimates globally showed that overall low temperatures (7.5 °C compared to 17.0 °C) and low absolute humidity (6.0 g/m3 compared to 11.0 g/m3) were associated with higher COVID-19 incidence (RR temp =1.33 with 95%CI: 1.08; 1.64 and RR AH =1.33 with 95%CI: 1.12; 1.57). RH revealed no significant trend and for UV some evidence of a positive association was found. These results were robust to sensitivity analysis. However, the study results also emphasise the heterogeneity of these associations in different countries. CONCLUSION Globally, our results suggest that comparatively low temperatures and low absolute humidity were associated with increased risks of COVID-19 incidence. However, this study underlines regional heterogeneity of weather-related effects on COVID-19 transmission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luise Nottmeyer
- Faculty of Engineering Sciences, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
| | - Ben Armstrong
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Rachel Lowe
- Centre for Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC), Barcelona, Spain; Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sam Abbott
- Centre for Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Sophie Meakin
- Centre for Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Kathleen M O'Reilly
- Centre for Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | | | - Rochelle Schneider
- Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Φ-Lab, European Space Agency, Frascati, Italy; European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecast (ECMWF), Reading, UK
| | - Dominic Royé
- Department of Geography, University of Santiago de Compostela, CIBER of Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBERESP), Spain
| | - Masahiro Hashizume
- Department of Paediatric Infectious Disease, Institute of Tropical Medicine, Nagasaki University, Japan; School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Japan; Department of Global Health Policy, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Mathilde Pascal
- Santé Publique France, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, French National Public Health Agency, Saint Maurice, France
| | - Aurelio Tobias
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Japan; Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA), Spanish Council for Scientific Research (CSIC), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Maria Vicedo-Cabrera
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; Oeschger Center for Climate Change Research, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Eric Lavigne
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Canada; Air Health Science Division, Health Canada, Ottawa, Canada
| | | | | | - Jan Kynčl
- Department of Infectious Diseases Epidemiology, National Institute of Public Health, Prague, Czech Republic; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Third Faculty of Medicine, Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Aleš Urban
- Institute of Atmospheric Physics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic; Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Hans Orru
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of Tartu, Tartu, Estonia
| | - Niilo Ryti
- Center for Environmental and Respiratory Health Research (CERH), University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland; Medical Research Center Oulu (MRC Oulu), Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Jouni Jaakkola
- Center for Environmental and Respiratory Health Research (CERH), University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland; Medical Research Center Oulu (MRC Oulu), Oulu University Hospital and University of Oulu, Oulu, Finland
| | - Marco Dallavalle
- Institute of Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München - German Research Center for Environmental Health (GmbH), Neuherberg, Germany; Department of Epidemiology, Institute for Medical Information Processing, Biometry and Epidemiology, Medical Faculty, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Alexandra Schneider
- Institute of Epidemiology, Helmholtz Zentrum München - German Research Center for Environmental Health (GmbH), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Yasushi Honda
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Japan; Center for Climate Change Adaptation, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba, Japan; Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Japan
| | - Chris Fook Sheng Ng
- School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Japan; Department of Global Health Policy, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Barrak Alahmad
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, USA
| | - Gabriel Carrasco-Escobar
- Health Innovation Laboratory, Institute of Tropical Medicine "Alexander von Humboldt", Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | | | - Ho Kim
- Department of Public Health Science, Graduate School of Public Health & Institute of Health and Environment, Seoul National University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Whanhee Lee
- School of Biomedical Convergence Engineering, College of Information and Biomedical Engineering, Pusan National University, Yangsan, South Korea
| | - Carmen Íñiguez
- Department of Statistics and Computational Research, Universitat de València, València, Spain
| | - Michelle L Bell
- School of the Environment, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Antonella Zanobetti
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, USA
| | - Joel Schwartz
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, USA
| | - Noah Scovronick
- Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, USA
| | | | | | - Magali Hurtado Diaz
- Department of Environmental Health, National Institute of Public Health, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Antonio Gasparrini
- Department of Public Health, Environments and Society, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Centre on Climate Change and Planetary Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK; Centre for Statistical Methodology, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Francesco Sera
- Department of Statistics, Computer Science and Applications "G. Parenti", University of Florence, Florence, Italy.
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Ricalde-Castillo Y, Celis-Mendoza M, Morales-García M, Huancahuire-Vega S, Calizaya-Milla YE, Saintila J, Sairitupa-Sanchez LZ, Morales-García SB, Morales-García WC. Sociodemographic Factors, Mental Health, and Emotional Eating Associated With Concern for COVID-19 Contagion in Nurses: A Cross-Sectional Study. J Prim Care Community Health 2023; 14:21501319231200400. [PMID: 37731344 PMCID: PMC10515584 DOI: 10.1177/21501319231200400] [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: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the association between sociodemographic factors, stress, depression and anxiety, emotional eating, and concern about COVID-19 contagion in first and second-line Peruvian nurses. METHODOLOGY The study was cross-sectional and conducted with 500 Peruvian nurses of both sexes, over 18 years of age. Validated questionnaires were used to measure sociodemographic aspects, concern about COVID-19, generalized anxiety, depression, self-perceived stress, and emotional eating. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to analyze the factors affecting concern about COVID-19 contagion. RESULTS The multiple linear regression analysis showed that stress, being between the ages of 18 and 29 years, being male, being from the coastal region or the jungle region, having a bachelor's degree, severe anxiety, and severe depression were associated with higher concern about COVID-19. On the other hand, having more than 5 to 10 years of experience and more than 10 years of experience, low emotional eating, and non-emotional eating were negatively associated with concern. This model explained 44.05% of the variability among the participating nurses. CONCLUSION These findings provide resources for future research on the comprehensive well-being of nursing staff by exploring various sociodemographic aspects and mental conditions associated with greater concern about COVID-19. Meanwhile, years of experience and emotional eating behavior were associated with lower concern about COVID-19. Future studies could incorporate this information to preserve the mental and physical health of nurses in the face of potential occupational threats.
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First molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2 virus in cockroaches. Biologia (Bratisl) 2023; 78:1153-1160. [PMID: 36741802 PMCID: PMC9890436 DOI: 10.1007/s11756-023-01332-7] [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: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Coronavirus is one of the main pathogens that primarily targets the human respiratory system. There are several ways to transmit this virus, such as direct contact or droplets spread by coughing or sneezing, and direct contact with fomites and surfaces is another way. This cross-sectional study was conducted in Shiraz, southern Iran, in 2021. 5 locations, including 3 hospitals and 2 dormitories, were selected for the survey. The cockroaches were collected from selected locations and transferred to the Laboratory of Medical Entomology at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. All specimens were identified morphologically. The external and gastrointestinal washouts of collected samples with sterile phosphate-buffered saline separately were used for molecular analysis. An RT-qPCR assay, which suggests the possible insect‑borne transmission, was used. External and gastrointestinal washout of B. germanica from Dastgheyb Dormitory and P. americana from Ali-Asghar Hospital were positive for contamination with the SARS-CoV-2. Cockroaches spread the virus in the environment and contaminate human food and various surfaces of buildings. Their role will be more important in crowded places such as hotels, lodging houses, restaurants, and hospitals; vector control programs should be carried out with more accuracy in such places.
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Wang W, Ji S, Wang J, Liao F. Using a novel two-stage strategy to characterize the spatial distribution of associations between temperature and COVID-19: A case study in the continental United States. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 850:158003. [PMID: 35970465 PMCID: PMC9373535 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous studies have studied the association between daily average temperature (DAT) and daily COVID-19 confirmed cases, which show considerable heterogeneity, even opposite results, among different regions. Such heterogeneity suggests that characterizing the association on a large area scale would ignore the local variation, even obtain false results in some local regions. So, characterizing the spatial distribution of heterogeneous DAT-COVID-19 associations and exploring the causes plays an important role on making temperature-related region-specific intervention measures and early-warning systems. METHODS Aiming to characterize the spatial distribution of associations between DAT and COVID-19 confirmed cases in the continental United States, we proposed a novel two-stage strategy. In the first stage, we used the common stratified distributed lag nonlinear model to obtain the rough state-specific associations. In the second stage, conditional autoregression was used to spatially smooth the rough estimations. Furtherly, based on the idea, two modified strategies were used to investigate the time-varying associations and the modification effects derived from the vaccination campaign. RESULTS Around one-third of states exhibit no significant association between DAT and daily confirmed COVID-19 cases. Most of the remaining states present a low risk at low DAT and a high risk at high DAT, but several states present opposite associations. The average association curve presents a 'S' shape with positive association between -8 - 18 °C and keeping flat out of the range. An increased vaccination coverage rate will increase the risk when DAT < 12 °C, but slightly affect the risk when DAT > 12 °C. CONCLUSION A considerable spatial heterogeneity of DAT-COVID-19 associations exists in America and the average association curve presents a 'S' shape. The vaccination campaign significantly modifies the association when DAT is low, but only make a slight modification when DAT is high.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Wang
- West China School of Public Health and West China Fourth Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Shuming Ji
- Department of Project Design and Statistics, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Jinyu Wang
- Sichuan Provincial Center for Mental Health, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu 610072, China; Key Laboratory of psychosomatic medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu 610072, China
| | - Fang Liao
- Sichuan Provincial Center for Mental Health, Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences & Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, Chengdu 610072, China; Key Laboratory of psychosomatic medicine, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Chengdu 610072, China.
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Lee EJ, Han S, Hyun SW, Song GB, Ha SD. Survival of human coronavirus 229E at different temperatures on various food-contact surfaces and food and under simulated digestive conditions. Food Res Int 2022; 162:112014. [PMID: 36461303 PMCID: PMC9526873 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodres.2022.112014] [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: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has had a major impact on human health and the global economy. Various transmission possibilities of SARS-CoV-2 have been proposed, such as the surface of food in the cold chain and food packaging, as well as the fecal-oral route, although person-to-person contact via droplets and aerosols has been confirmed as the main route of transmission. This study evaluated the survivability of HCoV-229E, a SARS-CoV-2 surrogate, in suspension, on food-contact surfaces and on food at various temperatures, and in simulated digestive fluids by TCID50 assay. In suspension, HCoV-229E survived after 5 days at 20 °C with a 3.69 log reduction, after 28 days at 4 °C with a 3.07 log reduction, and after 12 weeks at -20 °C with a 1.18 log reduction. On food-contact surfaces, HCoV-229E was not detected on day 3 on stainless steel (SS), plastic (LDPE), and silicone rubber (SR) at 20 °C with a 3.28, 3.24 and 3.28 log reduction, respectively, and survived after 28 days on SS and LDPE at 4 °C with a 3.13 and 2.88 log reduction, respectively, and survived after 12 weeks on SS, LDPE, and SR at -20 °C with a 1.92, 1.32 and 1.99 log reduction, respectively. On food, HCoV-229E was not detected on day 3 on lettuce and day 4 on chicken breast and salmon at 20 °C with a 3.61, 3.26 and 3.08 log reduction, respectively, and on day 14 on lettuce and day 21 on chicken breast and salmon at 4 °C with a 3.88, 3.44 and 3.56 log reduction, respectively. The virus remained viable for 12 weeks in all foods at -20 °C with 2-2.47 log reduction. In addition, in simulated digestive fluid experiments, HCoV-229E was relatively resistant in simulated salivary fluid (SSF; pH 7, 5), fed state simulated gastric fluid (FeSSGF; pH 3, 5, 7), and fasted state simulated intestinal fluid (FaSSIF; pH 7). However, the virus was less tolerant in fasted state simulated gastric fluid (FaSSGF; pH 1.6) and fed state simulated intestinal fluid (FeSSIF; pH 5). Therefore, this study suggested that HCoV-229E remained infectious on various food-contact surfaces and foods; in particular, it survived longer at lower temperatures and survived depending on the pH of the simulated digestive fluid.
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Verheyen CA, Bourouiba L. Associations between indoor relative humidity and global COVID-19 outcomes. J R Soc Interface 2022; 19:20210865. [PMID: 36382379 PMCID: PMC9667146 DOI: 10.1098/rsif.2021.0865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2022] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Globally, the spread and severity of COVID-19 have been distinctly non-uniform. Seasonality was suggested as a contributor to regional variability, but the relationship between weather and COVID-19 remains unclear and the focus of attention has been on outdoor conditions. Because humans spend most of their time indoors and because most transmission occurs indoors, we here, instead, investigate the hypothesis that indoor climate-particularly indoor relative humidity (RH)-may be the more relevant modulator of outbreaks. To study this association, we combined population-based COVID-19 statistics and meteorological measurements from 121 countries. We rigorously processed epidemiological data to reduce bias, then developed and experimentally validated a computational workflow to estimate indoor conditions based on outdoor weather data and standard indoor comfort conditions. Our comprehensive analysis shows robust and systematic relationships between regional outbreaks and indoor RH. In particular, we found intermediate RH (40-60%) to be robustly associated with better COVID-19 outbreak outcomes (versus RH < 40% or >60%). Together, these results suggest that indoor conditions, particularly indoor RH, modulate the spread and severity of COVID-19 outbreaks.
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Affiliation(s)
- C. A. Verheyen
- Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology, Boston, MA, USA
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Science, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - L. Bourouiba
- Harvard-MIT Health Sciences and Technology, Boston, MA, USA
- Institute for Medical Engineering and Science, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
- The Fluid Dynamics of Disease Transmission Laboratory, MIT, Cambridge, MA, USA
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45
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Zeng G, Chen L, Yuan H, Yamamoto A, Chen H, Maruyama S. Analysis of airborne sputum droplets flow dynamic behaviors under different ambient conditions and aerosol size effects. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 307:135708. [PMID: 35850221 PMCID: PMC9283082 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.135708] [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: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The coronavirus (COVID-19) is becoming more threatening with the emergence of new mutations. New virus transmission and infection processes remain challenging and re-examinations of proper protection methods are urgently needed. From fluid dynamic viewpoint, the transmission of virus-carrying droplets and aerosols is one key to understanding the virus-transmission mechanisms. This study shows virus transmission by incorporating flow-evaporation model into the Navier-Stokes equation to describe the group of airborne sputum droplets exhaled under Rosin-Rammler distribution. Solid components and humidity field evolution are incorporated in describing droplet and ambient conditions. The numerical model is solved by an inhouse code using advection-diffusion equation for the temperature field and the humidity field, discretized by applying the total-variation diminishing Runge-Kutta method. The results of this study are presented in detail to show the different trends under various ambient conditions and to reveal the major viral-transmission routes as a function of droplet size.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gang Zeng
- Institute of Engineering Thermophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China; School of Mathematics and Computational Science, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, 411105, China
| | - Lin Chen
- Institute of Engineering Thermophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China; Innovation Academy for Light-duty Gas Turbine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China.
| | - Haizhuan Yuan
- School of Mathematics and Computational Science, Xiangtan University, Xiangtan, 411105, China
| | - Ayumi Yamamoto
- National Institute of Technology, Hachinohe College, Hachinohe, Aomori, 039-1192, Japan
| | - Haisheng Chen
- Institute of Engineering Thermophysics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100190, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Shigenao Maruyama
- National Institute of Technology, Hachinohe College, Hachinohe, Aomori, 039-1192, Japan
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Featherstone AB, Brown AC, Chitlapilly Dass S. Murine Hepatitis Virus, a Biosafety Level 2 Model for SARS-CoV-2, Can Remain Viable on Meat and Meat Packaging Materials for at Least 48 Hours. Microbiol Spectr 2022; 10:e0186222. [PMID: 36069589 PMCID: PMC9603800 DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01862-22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
In 2020 and 2021, many meat processing plants faced temporary closures due to outbreaks of COVID-19 cases among the workers. There are several factors that could potentially contribute to the increased numbers of COVID-19 cases in meat processing plants: the survival of viable SARS-CoV-2 on meat and meat packaging materials, difficulties in maintaining workplace physical distancing, personal hygiene, and crowded living and transportation conditions. In this study, we used murine hepatitis virus (MHV) as a biosafety level 2 (BSL2) surrogate for SARS-CoV-2 to determine viral survival on the surface of meat, namely, stew-cut beef and ground beef, and commonly used meat packaging materials, such as plastic wrap, meat-absorbent material, and Styrofoam. From our studies, we observed the infectivity of MHV inoculated on ground beef and stew-cut beef for 48 h and saw no significant loss in infectivity for MHV from 0 to 6 h postinoculation (hpi) (unpaired t test). However, beginning at 9 hpi, viral infectivity steadily decreased, resulting in a 1.12-log reduction for ground beef and a 0.46-log reduction for stew-cut beef by 48 hpi. We also observed a significant persistence of MHV on meat packaging materials, with Styrofoam supporting the highest viability (3.25 × 103 ± 9.57 × 102 PFU/mL, a 0.91-log reduction after 48 hpi), followed by meat-absorbent material (75 ± 50 PFU/mL, a 1.10-log reduction after 48 hpi), and lastly, plastic wrap (no detectable PFU after 3 hpi, a 3.12-log reduction). Despite a notable reduction in infectivity, the virus was able to survive and remain infectious for up to 48 h at 7°C on four of the five test surfaces. Our results provide evidence that coronaviruses, such as SARS-CoV-2, could potentially survive on meat, meat-absorbent materials. and Styrofoam for up to 2 days, and potentially longer. IMPORTANCE The meat industry has been faced with astronomical challenges with the rampant spread of COVID-19 among meat processing plant workers. This has resulted in meat processing and packaging plant closures, creating bottlenecks everywhere in the chain, from farms to consumers, subsequently leading to much smaller production outputs and higher prices for all parties involved. This study tested the viability of meat and meat packaging materials as potential reservoirs for SARS-CoV-2, allowing the virus to survive and potentially spread among the workers. We used murine hepatitis virus (MHV) as a biosafety level 2 (BSL2) surrogate for SARS-CoV-2. Our results suggest that ground beef, stew-cut beef, meat-absorbent material, and Styrofoam can harbor coronavirus particles, which can remain viable for at least 48 h. Furthermore, our study provides evidence that the environmental and physical conditions within meat processing facilities can facilitate the survival of viable virus.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amanda Claire Brown
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA
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47
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Association Between Air Pollution, Climate Change, and COVID-19 Pandemic: A Review of the Recent Scientific Evidence. HEALTH SCOPE 2022. [DOI: 10.5812/jhealthscope-122412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Background: Recent studies indicated the possible relationship between climate change, environmental pollution, and Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This study reviewed the effects of air pollution, climate parameters, and lockdown on the number of cases and deaths related to COVID-19. Methods: The present review was performed to determine the effects of weather and air pollution on the number of cases and deaths related to COVID-19 during the lockdown. Articles were collected by searching the existing online databases, such as PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar, with no limitations on publication dates. Afterwards, this review focused on outdoor air pollution, including PM2.5, PM10, NO2, SO2, and O3, and weather conditions affecting severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)/COVID-19. Results: Most reviewed investigations in the present study showed that exposure to air pollutants, particularly PM2.5 and NO2, is positively related to COVID-19 patients and mortality. Moreover, these studies showed that air pollution could be essential in transmitting COVID-19. Local meteorology plays a vital role in coronavirus spread and mortality. Temperature and humidity variables are negatively correlated with virus transmission. The evidence demonstrated that air pollution could lead to COVID-19 transmission. These results support decision-makers in curbing potential new outbreaks. Conclusions: Overall, in environmental perspective-based COVID-19 studies, efforts should be accelerated regarding effective policies for reducing human emissions, bringing about air pollution and weather change. Therefore, using clean and renewable energy sources will increase public health and environmental quality by improving global air quality.
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48
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Luong NDM, Guillier L, Martin-Latil S, Batejat C, Leclercq I, Druesne C, Sanaa M, Chaix E. Database of SARS-CoV-2 and coronaviruses kinetics relevant for assessing persistence in food processing plants. Sci Data 2022; 9:654. [PMID: 36289246 PMCID: PMC9606249 DOI: 10.1038/s41597-022-01763-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 (Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2), a virus causing severe acute respiratory disease in humans, emerged in late 2019. This respiratory virus can spread via aerosols, fomites, contaminated hands or surfaces as for other coronaviruses. Studying their persistence under different environmental conditions represents a key step for better understanding the virus transmission. This work aimed to present a reproducible procedure for collecting data of stability and inactivation kinetics from the scientific literature. The aim was to identify data useful for characterizing the persistence of viruses in the food production plants. As a result, a large dataset related to persistence on matrices or in liquid media under different environmental conditions is presented. This procedure, combining bibliographic survey, data digitalization techniques and predictive microbiological modelling, identified 65 research articles providing 455 coronaviruses kinetics. A ranking step as well as a technical validation with a Gage Repeatability & Reproducibility process were performed to check the quality of the kinetics. All data were deposited in public repositories for future uses by other researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sandra Martin-Latil
- Laboratory for Food Safety, ANSES, University of Paris-EST, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Christophe Batejat
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Environment and Infectious Risks Unit, Laboratory for Urgent Response to Biological Threats (CIBU), Paris, France
| | - India Leclercq
- Institut Pasteur, Université Paris Cité, Environment and Infectious Risks Unit, Laboratory for Urgent Response to Biological Threats (CIBU), Paris, France
| | - Christine Druesne
- Research fundings & scientific watch department, ANSES, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Moez Sanaa
- Risk Assessment Department, ANSES, Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Estelle Chaix
- Risk Assessment Department, ANSES, Maisons-Alfort, France
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49
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Nafiz Rahaman S, Shehzad T, Sultana M. Effect of Seasonal Land Surface Temperature Variation on COVID-19 Infection Rate: A Google Earth Engine-Based Remote Sensing Approach. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH INSIGHTS 2022; 16:11786302221131467. [PMID: 36262201 PMCID: PMC9574535 DOI: 10.1177/11786302221131467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to identify the effect of seasonal land surface temperature variation on the COVID-19 infection rate. The study area of this research is Bangladesh and its 8 divisions. The Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform has been used to extract the land surface temperature (LST) values from MODIS satellite imagery from May 2020 to July 2021. The per-day new COVID-19 cases data has also been collected for the same date range. Descriptive and statistical results show that after experiencing a high LST season, the new COVID-19 cases rise. On the other hand, the COVID-19 infection rate decreases when the LST falls in the winter. Also, rapid ups and downs in LST cause a high number of new cases. Mobility, social interaction, and unexpected weather change may be the main factors behind this relationship between LST and COVID-19 infection rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sk. Nafiz Rahaman
- Sk. Nafiz Rahaman, Research Student, Urban and Rural Planning Discipline, Khulna University, Khulna 9208, Bangladesh.
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50
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Tang SGH, Hadi MHH, Arsad SR, Ker PJ, Ramanathan S, Afandi NAM, Afzal MM, Yaw MW, Krishnan PS, Chen CP, Tiong SK. Prerequisite for COVID-19 Prediction: A Review on Factors Affecting the Infection Rate. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:12997. [PMID: 36293576 PMCID: PMC9602751 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192012997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Revised: 09/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Since the year 2020, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has emerged as the dominant topic of discussion in the public and research domains. Intensive research has been carried out on several aspects of COVID-19, including vaccines, its transmission mechanism, detection of COVID-19 infection, and its infection rate and factors. The awareness of the public related to the COVID-19 infection factors enables the public to adhere to the standard operating procedures, while a full elucidation on the correlation of different factors to the infection rate facilitates effective measures to minimize the risk of COVID-19 infection by policy makers and enforcers. Hence, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive and analytical review of different factors affecting the COVID-19 infection rate. Furthermore, this review analyses factors which directly and indirectly affect the COVID-19 infection risk, such as physical distance, ventilation, face masks, meteorological factor, socioeconomic factor, vaccination, host factor, SARS-CoV-2 variants, and the availability of COVID-19 testing. Critical analysis was performed for the different factors by providing quantitative and qualitative studies. Lastly, the challenges of correlating each infection risk factor to the predicted risk of COVID-19 infection are discussed, and recommendations for further research works and interventions are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirley Gee Hoon Tang
- Center for Toxicology and Health Risk Studies (CORE), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia
| | - Muhamad Haziq Hasnul Hadi
- Institute of Sustainable Energy, Department of Electrical & Electronics, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Kajang 43000, Malaysia
| | - Siti Rosilah Arsad
- Institute of Sustainable Energy, Department of Electrical & Electronics, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Kajang 43000, Malaysia
| | - Pin Jern Ker
- Institute of Sustainable Energy, Department of Electrical & Electronics, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Kajang 43000, Malaysia
| | - Santhi Ramanathan
- Faculty of Business, Multimedia University, Jalan Ayer Keroh Lama, Malacca 75450, Malaysia
| | - Nayli Aliah Mohd Afandi
- Institute of Sustainable Energy, Department of Electrical & Electronics, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Kajang 43000, Malaysia
| | - Madihah Mohd Afzal
- Center for Toxicology and Health Risk Studies (CORE), Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Raja Muda Abdul Aziz, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia
| | - Mei Wyin Yaw
- Institute of Sustainable Energy, Department of Electrical & Electronics, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Kajang 43000, Malaysia
| | - Prajindra Sankar Krishnan
- Institute of Sustainable Energy, Department of Electrical & Electronics, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Kajang 43000, Malaysia
| | - Chai Phing Chen
- Institute of Sustainable Energy, Department of Electrical & Electronics, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Kajang 43000, Malaysia
| | - Sieh Kiong Tiong
- Institute of Sustainable Energy, Department of Electrical & Electronics, Universiti Tenaga Nasional, Kajang 43000, Malaysia
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