Exploring indoor and outdoor dust as a potential tool for detection and monitoring of COVID-19 transmission.

ABSTRACT: This study investigated the potential of using SARS-CoV-2 viral concentrations in dust as an additional surveillance tool for early detection and monitoring of COVID-19 transmission. Dust samples were collected from 8 public locations in 16 districts of Bangkok, Thailand, from June to August 2021. SARS-CoV-2 RNA concentrations in dust were quantified, and their correlation with community case incidence was assessed. Our findings revealed a positive correlation between viral concentrations detected in dust and the relative risk of COVID-19. The highest risk was observed with no delay (0-day lag), and this risk gradually decreased as the lag time increased. We observed an overall decline in viral concentrations in public places during lockdown, closely associated with reduced human mobility.

SUBMITTER: Anupong S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10875567 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature