SARS-CoV-2: Viral Loads of Exhaled Breath and Oronasopharyngeal Specimens in Hospitalized Patients with COVID-19.

ABSTRACT:

Background

SARS-CoV-2 seems mainly transmissible via respiratory droplets. We compared the time-dependent SARS-CoV-2 viral load in serial pharyngeal swab with exhaled breath (EB) samples of hospitalized COVID-19 patients.

Methods

In this prospective proof of concept study, we examined hospitalized patients who initially tested positive for SARS-CoV-2. Paired oronasopharyngeal swab and EB specimens were taken at different days of hospitalization. EB collection was performed through a simple, noninvasive method using an electret air filter-based device. SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection was determined with real-time quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Of 187 serial samples from 15 hospitalized patients, 87/87 oronasopharyngeal swabs and 70/100 E

SUBMITTER: Malik M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8260556 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature