The COVID-19 pandemic continues to wreak havoc across the world, with new variants of the virus emerging and vaccines being developed to combat them. However, a recent study has revealed a particularly concerning discovery – SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19, has been detected as infectious in hospital air. This finding poses a significant risk to both patients and healthcare workers, and highlights the need for increased measures for infection control in healthcare settings. In this article, we will delve into the details of this discovery and explore the implications it may have on our fight against the pandemic.
Quebec scientists have successfully isolated infectious particles of the SARS-CoV-2 virus from air samples taken from hospital rooms of COVID-19 patients, according to a new study. Published in Clinical Microbiology and Infection, the study is a significant contribution to a field of scientific research that has been little explored throughout the pandemic: airborne transmission of the virus. The research was conducted by Nathalie Grandvaux’s team at the CHUM Research Centre (CRCHUM), in collaboration with the teams of Caroline Duchaine (Université Laval) and Yves Longtin (McGill University).
The results of the study show that it is possible to isolate and cultivate infectious viruses from air samples even if the samples were collected over a year ago and frozen and stored. Thirty samples were collected from ten different rooms of COVID-19 patients and stored frozen in a biobank for 14 months. Using aerosol samples from one patient’s room, the scientists were able to identify the presence of replicating virus particles.
The findings of the study provide valuable insight to public health authorities, including the World Health Organization, who were slow to recognise airborne transmission of the virus. Airborne studies are challenging to conduct because of the need to preserve virus infectivity during collection, utilise the correct cell culture techniques, and have access to a Level 3 containment laboratory such as the one at CRCHUM.
The unique method developed by the team of scientists should increase awareness of airborne infectious viruses and the importance of targeting airborne transmission in personal and collective protection measures, including by improving indoor air quality. The collection and culture method can also be applied to closed environments other than hospitals, such as schools, to test air quality and evaluate the effectiveness of protection measures against airborne transmission of viruses.
The findings of the study can be used to prepare for the next pandemic, whether it be SARS-CoV-2 or another respiratory virus. Scientists believe that the data will also help us better understand the importance of airborne transmission of the virus and implement adapted preventive strategies, which would be beneficial in the event of the virus evolving and other similar viruses emerging. The study was funded by the Fonds de Recherche du Québec-Santé and the Fondation du CHUM.
The discovery of SARS-CoV-2 in hospital air is a cause for concern, but it should not be a cause for panic. Hospitals are taking extra precautions to ensure the safety of their patients and staff, and the medical community is constantly learning more about this new virus.
As individuals, we can also take steps to protect ourselves and others. Wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and washing our hands regularly are all important ways to help stop the spread of the virus.
The fight against COVID-19 is far from over, but with continued vigilance and cooperation, we can slow its spread and protect our communities. Stay safe, stay informed, and take care of yourselves and each other.
