ABSTRACT
ImportanceThe COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in more than 3.5 million cases and 245 thousand deaths worldwide as of May 6, 2020. Determining the extent of the presence of the virus on public surfaces is critical for understanding the potential risk of infection in these areas. ObjectiveTo evaluate the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA on public surfaces in a densely populated urban area in Brazil. Design and SettingA total of 101 samples were collected from different surfaces in public places in the region of Belo Horizonte with the highest number of COVID-19 cases. Samples were collected near the hospital and public transportation areas using sterile swabs, and then submitted to nucleic acid extraction and genomic detection and quantification by one-step qPCR. ResultsSeventeen of the 101 samples tested positive (16.8%) for SARS-CoV-2 RNA, including samples from bus stations/terminals, public squares, and sidewalks, including those near hospitals. Conclusions and RelevanceOur data indicated the contamination of public surfaces by SARS-CoV-2, especially near hospital areas, highlighting the risk of infection for the population. Constant monitoring of the virus in urban areas is required as a strategy to fight the pandemic and prevent further infections. Key points Question Can SARS-CoV-2 be detected on surfaces in public areas used by a large proportion of the population? FindingsSARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in different locations, including bus stations/terminals, squares, and sidewalks, especially those near hospitals, in a densely populated area of Belo Horizonte, Brazil. MeaningThis study highlights the need for constant monitoring for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in urban areas to support better strategies to fight the COVID-19 pandemic and prevent further infections.
