During the initial isolation of 13 people confirmed positive with COVID-19, air and surface samples were collected in 11 isolation rooms to examine environmental contamination.
The researchers found viral contamination on all commonly used surfaces in the rooms, and very high levels of the virus in the air grates. Air samples from hallways outside patient rooms, where staff members were moving in and out, were also positive.
Evidence of the virus in the air and on many commonly used items, including bathroom facilities, indicates that SARS-CoV-2 is widely disseminated in the environment.
The results of the research suggest that COVID-19 patients, even those who are only mildly ill, may spread the virus and contaminate surfaces that pose a risk of transmission. The results also suggest that airborne isolation precautions are appropriate.
