Detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA on air purifier filters in university spaces without symptomatic or confirmed cases.

ABSTRACT: Understanding the seasonality and prevalence of respiratory viruses in indoor environments is essential for protecting public health in the post-pandemic era. This study investigated the presence of airborne SARS-CoV-2 in university indoor spaces where no symptomatic or confirmed positive individuals were supposed to be present. A total of 127 high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter samples were analyzed from air purifiers installed in classrooms, conference rooms, and a community room within a university building across different seasons from Fall 2022 to Summer 2023. Viral RNA was extracted and quantified using RT-qPCR for each sample. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in 21% of the samples, with the positivity rate varying significantly by room type but not by season. Among the 27 posit

SUBMITTER: Li J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12851557 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature