Presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA on Surfaces of Public Places and a Transportation System Located in a Densely Populated Urban Area in South America.
Viruses
; 14(1)2021 12 23.
Article
in English
| MEDLINE | ID: covidwho-1580412
ABSTRACT
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a highly transmissible RNA virus that causes COVID-19. Being aware of the presence of the virus on different types of surfaces and in different environments, and having a protocol for its detection, is important to understand the dynamics of the virus and its shedding patterns. In Ecuador, the detection of viral RNA in urban environmental samples has not been a priority. The present study analyzed samples from two densely populated neighborhoods and one public transportation system in Quito, Ecuador. Viral RNA presence was assessed using RT-LAMP. Twenty-eight out of 300 surfaces tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA (9.33%). Frequently touched surfaces, especially in indoor spaces and on public transportation, were most likely to be positive for viral RNA. Positivity rate association for the two neighborhoods and for the surface type was not found. This study found viral RNA presence on urban surfaces; this information provides an insight into viral dissemination dynamics. Monitoring environmental SARS-CoV-2 could support the public health prevention strategies in Quito, Ecuador.
Keywords
Full text:
Available
Collection:
International databases
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Transportation
/
RNA, Viral
/
Environmental Microbiology
/
SARS-CoV-2
Type of study:
Diagnostic study
Limits:
Humans
Country/Region as subject:
South America
/
Ecuador
Language:
English
Year:
2021
Document Type:
Article
Affiliation country:
V14010019
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