Measurement of SARS-CoV-2 in air and on surfaces in Scottish hospitals

Loh, M.M. and Yaxley, N. and Moore, G. and Holmes, D. and Todd, S. and Smith, A. and Macdonald, E. and Semple, S. and Cherrie, M. and Patel, M. and Hamill, R. and Leckie, A. and Dancer, S.J. and Cherrie, J.W. (2023) Measurement of SARS-CoV-2 in air and on surfaces in Scottish hospitals. Journal of Hospital Infection, 133. pp. 1-7. ISSN 0195-6701 (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhin.2022.11.019)

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Abstract

Background There are still uncertainties in our knowledge of the amount of SARS-CoV-2 virus present in the environment – where it can be found, and potential exposure determinants – limiting our ability to effectively model and compare interventions for risk management. Aim This study measured SARS-CoV-2 in three hospitals in Scotland on surfaces and in air, alongside ventilation and patient care activities. Methods Air sampling at 200 L/min for 20 min and surface sampling were performed in two wards designated to treat COVID-19-positive patients and two non-COVID-19 wards across three hospitals in November and December 2020. Findings Detectable samples of SARS-CoV-2 were found in COVID-19 treatment wards but not in non-COVID-19 wards. Most samples were below assay detection limits, but maximum concentrations reached 1.7×103 genomic copies/m3 in air and 1.9×104 copies per surface swab (3.2×102 copies/cm2 for surface loading). The estimated geometric mean air concentration (geometric standard deviation) across all hospitals was 0.41 (71) genomic copies/m3 and the corresponding values for surface contamination were 2.9 (29) copies/swab. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was found in non-patient areas (patient/visitor waiting rooms and personal protective equipment changing areas) associated with COVID-19 treatment wards. Conclusion Non-patient areas of the hospital may pose risks for infection transmission and further attention should be paid to these areas. Standardization of sampling methods will improve understanding of levels of environmental contamination. The pandemic has demonstrated a need to review and act upon the challenges of older hospital buildings meeting current ventilation guidance.

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