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Haowei Y, Mahyuddin N, Bin Nik Ghazali NN, Wang Z, Liu Y, Pan S, Badruddin IA. A critical review of research methodologies for COVID-19 transmission in indoor built environment. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH RESEARCH 2024:1-65. [PMID: 38385569 DOI: 10.1080/09603123.2024.2308731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
The Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has caused massive losses for the global economy. Scholars have used different methods to study the transmission mode and influencing factors of the virus to find effective methods to provide people with a healthy built environment. However, these studies arrived at different or even contradictory conclusions. This review presents the main research methodologies utilized in this field, summarizes the main investigation methods, and critically discusses their related conclusions. Data statistical analysis, sample collection, simulation models, and replication transmission scenarios are the main research methods. The summarized conclusion for prevention from all reviewed papers are: adequate ventilation and proper location of return air vents, proper use of personal protective equipment, as well as the reasonable and strict enforcement of policies are the main methods for reducing the transmission. Recommendations including standardized databases, causation clarification, rigorous experiment design, improved simulation accuracy and verification are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Haowei
- Centre for Building, Construction & Tropical Architecture (BuCTA), Faculty of Built Environment, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Norhayati Mahyuddin
- Centre for Building, Construction & Tropical Architecture (BuCTA), Faculty of Built Environment, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nik Nazri Bin Nik Ghazali
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Zeyu Wang
- China Nuclear Power Engineering Co. Ltd, Beijing Institute of Nuclear Engineering, Beijing, China
| | - Yiqiao Liu
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Malaya, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Song Pan
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Green Built Environment and Energy Efficient Technology, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing, China
- Key Laboratory for Comprehensive Energy Saving of Cold Regions Architecture of Ministry of Education, Jilin Jianzhu University, Changchun, PR China
| | - Irfan Anjum Badruddin
- Mechanical Engineering Department, College of Engineering, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
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2
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Olaimat AN, Taybeh AO, Al-Nabulsi A, Al-Holy M, Hatmal MM, Alzyoud J, Aolymat I, Abughoush MH, Shahbaz H, Alzyoud A, Osaili T, Ayyash M, Coombs KM, Holley R. Common and Potential Emerging Foodborne Viruses: A Comprehensive Review. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:190. [PMID: 38398699 PMCID: PMC10890126 DOI: 10.3390/life14020190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Human viruses and viruses from animals can cause illnesses in humans after the consumption of contaminated food or water. Contamination may occur during preparation by infected food handlers, during food production because of unsuitably controlled working conditions, or following the consumption of animal-based foods contaminated by a zoonotic virus. This review discussed the recent information available on the general and clinical characteristics of viruses, viral foodborne outbreaks and control strategies to prevent the viral contamination of food products and water. Viruses are responsible for the greatest number of illnesses from outbreaks caused by food, and risk assessment experts regard them as a high food safety priority. This concern is well founded, since a significant increase in viral foodborne outbreaks has occurred over the past 20 years. Norovirus, hepatitis A and E viruses, rotavirus, astrovirus, adenovirus, and sapovirus are the major common viruses associated with water or foodborne illness outbreaks. It is also suspected that many human viruses including Aichi virus, Nipah virus, tick-borne encephalitis virus, H5N1 avian influenza viruses, and coronaviruses (SARS-CoV-1, SARS-CoV-2 and MERS-CoV) also have the potential to be transmitted via food products. It is evident that the adoption of strict hygienic food processing measures from farm to table is required to prevent viruses from contaminating our food.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin N. Olaimat
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, The Hashemite University, P.O. Box 330127, Zarqa 13133, Jordan; (M.A.-H.); (M.H.A.)
| | - Asma’ O. Taybeh
- Department of Nutrition and Food Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, Irbid 22110, Jordan; (A.O.T.); (A.A.-N.); (T.O.)
| | - Anas Al-Nabulsi
- Department of Nutrition and Food Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, Irbid 22110, Jordan; (A.O.T.); (A.A.-N.); (T.O.)
| | - Murad Al-Holy
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, The Hashemite University, P.O. Box 330127, Zarqa 13133, Jordan; (M.A.-H.); (M.H.A.)
| | - Ma’mon M. Hatmal
- Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, The Hashemite University, P.O. Box 330127, Zarqa 13133, Jordan;
| | - Jihad Alzyoud
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, P.O. Box 330127, Zarqa 13133, Jordan; (J.A.); (I.A.)
| | - Iman Aolymat
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, P.O. Box 330127, Zarqa 13133, Jordan; (J.A.); (I.A.)
| | - Mahmoud H. Abughoush
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences, The Hashemite University, P.O. Box 330127, Zarqa 13133, Jordan; (M.A.-H.); (M.H.A.)
- Science of Nutrition and Dietetics Program, College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Abu Dhabi P.O. Box 64141, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hafiz Shahbaz
- Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore 54000, Pakistan;
| | - Anas Alzyoud
- Faculty of Medicine, The Hashemite University, P.O. Box 330127, Zarqa 13133, Jordan;
| | - Tareq Osaili
- Department of Nutrition and Food Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O. Box 3030, Irbid 22110, Jordan; (A.O.T.); (A.A.-N.); (T.O.)
- Department of Clinical Nutrition and Dietetics, College of Health Sciences, University of Sharjah, Sharjah P.O. Box 27272, United Arab Emirates
| | - Mutamed Ayyash
- Department of Food Science, College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, United Arab Emirates University, P.O. Box 15551, Al Ain 53000, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Kevin M. Coombs
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3E 0J9, Canada;
| | - Richard Holley
- Department of Food and Human Nutritional Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2, Canada;
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Arienzo A, Gallo V, Tomassetti F, Pitaro N, Pitaro M, Antonini G. A narrative review of alternative transmission routes of COVID 19: what we know so far. Pathog Glob Health 2023; 117:681-695. [PMID: 37350182 PMCID: PMC10614718 DOI: 10.1080/20477724.2023.2228048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
The Coronavirus disease 19 (COVID-19) pandemics, caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronaviruses, SARS-CoV-2, represent an unprecedented public health challenge. Beside person-to-person contagion via airborne droplets and aerosol, which is the main SARS-CoV-2's route of transmission, alternative modes, including transmission via fomites, food and food packaging, have been investigated for their potential impact on SARS-CoV-2 diffusion. In this context, several studies have demonstrated the persistence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA and, in some cases, of infectious particles on exposed fomites, food and water samples, confirming their possible role as sources of contamination and transmission. Indeed, fomite-to-human transmission has been demonstrated in a few cases where person-to-person transmission had been excluded. In addition, recent studies supported the possibility of acquiring COVID-19 through the fecal-oro route; the occurrence of COVID-19 gastrointestinal infections, in the absence of respiratory symptoms, also opens the intriguing possibility that these cases could be directly related to the ingestion of contaminated food and water. Overall, most of the studies considered these alternative routes of transmission of low epidemiological relevance; however, it should be considered that they could play an important role, or even be prevalent, in settings characterized by different environmental and socio-economic conditions. In this review, we discuss the most recent findings regarding SARS-CoV-2 alternative transmission routes, with the aim to disclose what is known about their impact on COVID-19 spread and to stimulate research in this field, which could potentially have a great impact, especially in low-resource contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Michele Pitaro
- National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems (INBB), Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Antonini
- National Institute of Biostructures and Biosystems (INBB), Rome, Italy
- Department of Science, Roma Tre University, Rome, Italy
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Zambrana W, Boehm AB. Occurrence of Human Viruses on Fomites in the Environment: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. ACS ENVIRONMENTAL AU 2023; 3:277-294. [PMID: 37743950 PMCID: PMC10515712 DOI: 10.1021/acsenvironau.3c00025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/26/2023]
Abstract
Documenting the occurrence of viruses on fomites is crucial in determining the significance of fomite-mediated transmission and the potential use of fomites for environmental disease surveillance. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to compile information on the occurrence of human viruses on fomites in the environment; we identified 134 peer-reviewed papers. We compiled sampling and measurement methods, results, quality control information, and whether virus data were compared with community health data from the papers. We conducted univariate and multivariate analyses to investigate if presence of virus on fomites was associated with virus type (enveloped, nonenveloped), sampling location (healthcare setting, nonhealthcare temporary setting, nonhealthcare nontemporary setting), and area of fomite swabbed (<50, 50-100, >100 cm2). Across 275 data sets from the 134 papers, there was the most data available for Coronaviridae and from fomites at hospitals. Positivity rates, defined as the percent positive fomite samples, were low (median = 6%). Data were available on viruses from 16 different viral families, but data on viruses from 9 families had few (n < 5) data sets. Many human virus families were not identified in this review (11 families). Less than 15% of the data sets reported virus concentrations in externally valid units (viruses per area of surface), and 16% provided a quantitative comparison between virus and health data. Virus type and area swabbed were significant predictors of virus presence on fomites, and the positivity rate of data sets collected from healthcare settings and nonhealthcare nontemporary settings (e.g., individual housing) were significantly higher than those collected in nonhealthcare temporary settings (e.g., restaurants). Data from this review indicates that viruses may be present on fomites, that fomite-mediated virus transmission may occur, and that fomites may provide information on circulation of infectious diseases in the community. However, more quantitative data on diverse viruses are needed, and method reporting needs significant improvements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winnie Zambrana
- Department
of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Stanford University, 473 Via Ortega, Stanford, California 94305, United States
| | - Alexandria B. Boehm
- Department
of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Stanford University, 473 Via Ortega, Stanford, California 94305, United States
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Brown TW, Park GW, Wittry B, Barclay L, Person M, Relja B, Daly S, Chhabra P, Kincaid E, Johnson J, Ahmad A, Herzegh O, Vinjé J, Murphy J. SARS-CoV-2 surface contamination in metro-Atlanta grocery stores. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0291747. [PMID: 37725625 PMCID: PMC10508621 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
While the COVID-19 pandemic has had a detrimental impact on many businesses worldwide, essential businesses, such as grocery stores, continued to operate despite potential disease transmission. Although the principal mode by which people are infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, is through exposure to respiratory droplets and very small particles carrying infectious virus, contaminated surfaces might play a role in transmission. We collected swab samples from frequently touched surfaces, including grocery carts, touchscreen monitors, credit card keypads, pharmacy counters, self-service food utensils, and refrigerator and freezer handles, in two metro-Atlanta grocery stores over the course of two sampling events in March 2021. Of the 260 swab samples collected, 6 (2.3%) samples were positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA by reverse transcriptase quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Positive samples were collected from pharmacy (12.0% [3/25] samples), refrigerator/freezer aisles (2.5% [1/39] samples), and self-service food court (5.0% [2/40] samples) areas. Table/counter edge and underside surfaces represented 33% (2/6) of positive samples. These data suggest that risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2 from frequently touched surfaces in grocery store settings is likely low; however, more frequent cleaning of surfaces in pharmacy and self-service food courts might be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis W. Brown
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, National Center for Emerging Zoonotic and Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Geun W. Park
- Division of Viral Diseases, National Center for Immunological and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Beth Wittry
- Division of Environmental Health Science and Practice, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Leslie Barclay
- Division of Viral Diseases, National Center for Immunological and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Margaret Person
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, National Center for Emerging Zoonotic and Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Boris Relja
- Division of Viral Diseases, National Center for Immunological and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Scott Daly
- Division of Environmental Health Science and Practice, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Preeti Chhabra
- Division of Viral Diseases, National Center for Immunological and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Erin Kincaid
- Division of Environmental Health Science and Practice, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Jona Johnson
- Division of Environmental Health Science and Practice, National Center for Environmental Health, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Ausaf Ahmad
- Division of Scientific Resources, National Center for Emerging Zoonotic and Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Owen Herzegh
- Division of Scientific Resources, National Center for Emerging Zoonotic and Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Jan Vinjé
- Division of Viral Diseases, National Center for Immunological and Respiratory Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
| | - Jennifer Murphy
- Division of Foodborne, Waterborne, and Environmental Diseases, National Center for Emerging Zoonotic and Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia, United States of America
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6
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Peng LH, Chen YJ, Yang SY, Wang GJ, Gu YH, Shen BL, Liu LZ, Xian RX, Li XH, Li SY, Dai ZN, Xu FP, Hu JR, Wang F. Viral contamination on the surfaces of the personal protective equipment among health care professionals working in COVID-19 wards: A single-center prospective, observational study. Am J Infect Control 2023; 51:276-281. [PMID: 36375705 PMCID: PMC9652000 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2022.10.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2022] [Revised: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate potential viral contamination on the surfaces of personal protective equipment (PPE) in COVID-19 wards. METHODS Face shields, gloves, the chest area of PPE and shoe soles were sampled at different time points. The samples were tested for the presence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) by PCR, and the cycle threshold (CT) values were recorded. RESULTS The positive rate was 74.7% (239/320) for all PPE specimens. The CT values of the samples were ranked in the following order: face shields > chests > gloves > shoe soles (37.08±1.38, 35.48±2.02, 34.17±1.91 and 33.52±3.16, respectively; P for trend < .001). After disinfection, the CT values of shoe soles decreased compared with before disinfection (32.78±3.47 vs. 34.3±2.61, P = .037), whereas no significant effect of disinfection on the CT values of face shields, chests and gloves was observed. After disinfection, the CT values of specimens collected from shoe soles gradually increased; before disinfection, the CT values of shoe sole specimens were all less than 35. CONCLUSIONS SARS-CoV-2 can attach to the surfaces of the PPE of healthcare professionals in COVID-19 wards, especially the shoe soles and undisinfected gloves. Shoe soles had the highest SARS-CoV-2 loads among all tested PPE items.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li-Hao Peng
- Department of Hospital Infection Management, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ya-Juan Chen
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China; Department of Nursing, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Shi-Yi Yang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China; Department of Nursing, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Guo-Jiang Wang
- Department of Neurology, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan-Hua Gu
- Department of Nursing, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Bao-Liang Shen
- Department of Orthopedics, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Li-Zhen Liu
- Department of Interventional, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Rui-Xing Xian
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xian-Hua Li
- Department of Nursing, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Shu-Yun Li
- Department of Nursing, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen-Ni Dai
- Department of Nursing, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Fei-Peng Xu
- Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian-Rong Hu
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Fei Wang
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated Shanghai University of Medicine & Health Sciences, Shanghai, China.
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Cox J, Christensen B, Burton N, Dunn KH, Finnegan M, Ruess A, Estill C. Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in the workplace: Key findings from a rapid review of the literature. AEROSOL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY : THE JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR AEROSOL RESEARCH 2023; 57:233-254. [PMID: 37213938 PMCID: PMC10193509 DOI: 10.1080/02786826.2023.2166394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
At the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, the primary route of transmission of the SARS-CoV-2 virus was not well understood. Research gathered from other respiratory infectious diseases, including other coronaviruses, was the basis for the initial perceptions for transmission of SARS-CoV-2. To better understand transmission of SARS-CoV-2, a rapid literature review was conducted from literature generated March 19, 2020, through September 23, 2021. 18,616 unique results were identified from literature databases and screened. Of these, 279 key articles were reviewed and abstracted covering critical topics such as environmental/workplace monitoring, sampling and analytical method evaluation, and the ability of the virus to remain intact and infectious during sampling. This paper describes the results of the rapid literature review, which evaluated pathways that contribute to transmission as well as the strengths and limitations of current sampling approaches. This review also evaluates how different factors, including environmental conditions and surface characteristics, could impact the transmission potential of SARS-CoV-2. A continual rapid review in the midst of a pandemic proved particularly useful for quickly understanding the transmission parameters of the virus and enabled us to comprehensively assess literature, respond to workplace questions, and evaluate our understanding as the science evolved. Air and surface sampling with the accompanying analytical methods were not generally effective in recovering SARS-CoV-2 viable virus or RNA in many likely contaminated environments. In light of these findings, the development of validated sampling and analysis methods is critical for determining worker exposure to SARS-CoV-2 and to assess the impact of mitigation efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennie Cox
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Brian Christensen
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Nancy Burton
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Kevin H. Dunn
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | | | - Ana Ruess
- Gryphon Scientific, Takoma Park, MD, USA
| | - Cherie Estill
- National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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Arriaga-Lorenzo P, de Jesús Maldonado-Simán E, Ramírez-Valverde R, Martínez-Hernández PA, Tirado-González DN, Saavedra-Jiménez LA. Cold chain relevance in the food safety of perishable products. FOODS AND RAW MATERIALS 2022. [DOI: 10.21603/2308-4057-2023-1-559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The food cold chain is an effective tool that allows food markets to maintain food quality and reduce losses. Poor logistics may result in foodborne disease outbreaks and greenhouse gas emissions caused by organic matter decay. The ongoing pandemic of COVID-19 makes it necessary to study the chances of SARS-CoV-2 transmissions in food products.
This study reviews cold chain logistics as a handy tool for avoiding food safety risks, including COVID-19.
The cold chain of perishables and its proper management make it possible to maintain quality and safety at any stage of the food supply chain. The technology covers each link of the food chain to prevent microbial spoilage caused by temperature fluctuations and the contamination with SARS-CoV-2 associated with perishable foods. Given the lack of knowledge in this field in Latin America, the region needs new research to determine the impact of the cold chain on perishable foodstuffs.
The perishable cold chain is only as strong as its weakest link, and the national and international markets require new traceability protocols to minimize the effect of COVID-19.
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The Multifaceted Relationship between the COVID-19 Pandemic and the Food System. Foods 2022; 11:foods11182816. [PMID: 36140944 PMCID: PMC9497833 DOI: 10.3390/foods11182816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 09/03/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is being questioned for its possible food transmission, due to several reports of the virus on food, outbreaks developed in food companies, as well as its origins linked to the wet market of Wuhan, China. The purpose of this review is to analyze the scientific evidence gathered so far on the relationship between food and the pandemic, considering all aspects of the food system that can be involved. The collected data indicate that there is no evidence that foods represent a risk for the transmission of SARS-CoV-2. In fact, even if the virus can persist on food surfaces, there are currently no proven cases of infection from food. Moreover, the pandemic showed to have deeply influenced the eating habits of consumers and their purchasing methods, but also to have enhanced food waste and poverty. Another important finding is the role of meat processing plants as suitable environments for the onset of outbreaks. Lessons learned from the pandemic include the correct management of spaces, food hygiene education for both food workers and common people, the enhancement of alternative commercial channels, the reorganization of food activities, in particular wet markets, and intensive farming, following correct hygiene practices. All these outcomes lead to another crucial lesson, which is the importance of the resilience of the food system. These lessons should be assimilated to deal with the present pandemic and possible future emergencies. Future research directions include further investigation of the factors linked to the food system that can favor the emergence of viruses, and of innovative technologies that can reduce viral transmission.
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10
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Tirado-Kulieva VA, Miranda-Zamora WR, Hernández-Martínez E, Choque-Rivera TJ, Luque-Vilca OM. The vulnerability of a centralized food system: An opportunity to improve food security in times of COVID-19-Peru perspective. FRONTIERS IN SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEMS 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fsufs.2022.901417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
COVID-19 has had a strong impact on the food supply chain (FSC) in many countries. The objective of this study was to determine the vulnerability of the FSC in a developing country, namely Peru. The main weakness of the FSC is its centralization, and COVID-19 aggravated this deficit in Peru. This prevents its stability on a large scale, especially in rural areas, which suffer from food and nutritional insecurity. In spite of this, the food system was stabilized due to agricultural, livestock and fishing potential of Peru. In addition, the efforts of local producers and informal vendors helped to maintain the availability of food throughout the country. Several examples of short (and decentralized) FSC were described, highlighting their importance for supplying the population in different areas of the country. In addition, they allow for rapid resolution of interruptions such as the current health crisis. Also mentioned are some suggestions for strengthening Peru's FSC such as the use of new technologies, self-production of food and the exploitation of non-conventional food sources. Emphasis is placed on the importance of environmental sustainability of the FSC and of implementing strategies to prevent illness among workers. This study aims to reflect on the importance of having a resilient and flexible FSC. Taking Peru as a model, the information provided is useful to understand how to improve the food system through the intervention of all the agents involved, such as government, academia, industry and the population.
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11
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Komaikul J, Ruangdachsuwan S, Juntarapornchai S, Wanlayaporn D, Ketsuwan K, Masrinoul P, Yoksan S, Puthavathana P, Kitisripanya T. Effectiveness of neutral electrolyzed water in inactivating HCoV-OC43 and SARS-CoV-2 on the surfaces of plastic and the medicinal plant Centella asiatica (L.) urban. Heliyon 2022; 8:e10294. [PMID: 36032186 PMCID: PMC9391078 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e10294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Concerns have been raised about viral contamination, including in crops due to the recent coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. Limited evidence is available to support the use of sanitizing agents for human coronavirus-contaminated medicinal plants. Thus, we aimed to investigate the persistence of infectious human coronavirus OC43 (HCoV-OC43) as a SARS-CoV-2 surrogate in storage conditions and the capability of neutral electrolyzed water (NEW) to inactivate coronavirus, including in fresh plants such as C. asiatica. The levels of infectious HCoV-OC43 and the triterpenoid content of C. asiatica were quantified using a plaque assay and high-performance liquid chromatography, respectively. The results showed that the persistence of HCoV-OC43 on C. asiatica leaves is identical to that on inert polystyrene. When covered and kept at room temperature with high humidity (>90% RH), HCoV-OC43 can be stable on C. asiatica leaves for at least 24 h. NEW with 197 ppm of available chlorine concentration (ACC) was effective in inactivating both infectious HCoV-OC43 and SARS-CoV-2 in suspension (≥3.68 and ≥4.34 log reduction, respectively), and inactivated dried HCoV-OC43 on the surfaces of C. asiatica leaves (≥2.31 log reduction). Soaking C. asiatica leaves for 5 min in NEW with 205 ppm of ACC or water resulted in significantly higher asiaticoside levels (37.82 ± 0.29 and 35.32 ± 0.74 mg/g dry weight, respectively), compared to the unsoaked group (29.96 ± 0.78 mg/g dry weight). These findings suggest that although coronavirus-contaminated C. asiatica leaves can pose a risk of transmission, NEW could be an option for inactivation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jukrapun Komaikul
- Center for Vaccine Development, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Sasiporn Ruangdachsuwan
- Center for Vaccine Development, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Sanjira Juntarapornchai
- Center for Vaccine Development, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Duangnapa Wanlayaporn
- Center for Vaccine Development, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Kunjimas Ketsuwan
- Center for Vaccine Development, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Promsin Masrinoul
- Center for Vaccine Development, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | - Suthee Yoksan
- Center for Vaccine Development, Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand
| | | | - Tharita Kitisripanya
- Department of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
- Corresponding author.
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12
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Arnaboldi S, Mangeri L, Galuppini E, Righi F, Tilola M, Scarazzato A, Bertasi B, Finazzi G, Varisco G, Filipello V, Losio MN. Is SARS-CoV-2 a Concern for Food Safety? A Very Low Prevalence from a Food Survey during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Northern Italy. Foods 2022; 11:foods11142096. [PMID: 35885339 PMCID: PMC9324013 DOI: 10.3390/foods11142096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In 2019, SARS-CoV-2 was identified as the cause of an easily transmissible disease that was declared as a world pandemic. Foodborne transmission was never reported. However, early studies suggested that food could be involved in SARS-CoV-2 entry in the human gastrointestinal tract leading to possible infection, and highlighting the importance of further studies to inspect possible issues linked to food consumption. In this perspective, this work aimed at monitoring SARS-CoV-2 presence in some food and mains water samples in Northern Italy during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020–2022). A total of 1806 foods, 112 mains water samples, and 580 swabs on meat and dairy product surfaces were analyzed for SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection by Real-time PCR. All the analyzed samples were negative to viral RNA detection with the exception of one vegetable sample. Even if data on foodborne coronavirus transmission suggested a limited importance of this pathway, the impact of the current pandemic in Northern Italy deserved a rigorous investigation to rule out such possibility. Indeed, gaining insight on all SARS-CoV-2 possible transmission pathways, including the foodborne route, seemed of interest to maintain consumers’ confidence and trust in food safety, and for the effective management of the current, and future, possible pandemics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Arnaboldi
- Food Safety Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via A. Bianchi 9, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (L.M.); (E.G.); (F.R.); (M.T.); (A.S.); (B.B.); (G.F.); (G.V.); (V.F.); (M.-N.L.)
- National Reference Centre for Emerging Risks in Food Safety (CRESA), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via Celoria 12, 20133 Milan, Italy
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-0302290381
| | - Lucia Mangeri
- Food Safety Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via A. Bianchi 9, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (L.M.); (E.G.); (F.R.); (M.T.); (A.S.); (B.B.); (G.F.); (G.V.); (V.F.); (M.-N.L.)
- National Reference Centre for Emerging Risks in Food Safety (CRESA), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via Celoria 12, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Elisa Galuppini
- Food Safety Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via A. Bianchi 9, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (L.M.); (E.G.); (F.R.); (M.T.); (A.S.); (B.B.); (G.F.); (G.V.); (V.F.); (M.-N.L.)
- National Reference Centre for Emerging Risks in Food Safety (CRESA), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via Celoria 12, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Righi
- Food Safety Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via A. Bianchi 9, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (L.M.); (E.G.); (F.R.); (M.T.); (A.S.); (B.B.); (G.F.); (G.V.); (V.F.); (M.-N.L.)
- National Reference Centre for Emerging Risks in Food Safety (CRESA), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via Celoria 12, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Michela Tilola
- Food Safety Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via A. Bianchi 9, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (L.M.); (E.G.); (F.R.); (M.T.); (A.S.); (B.B.); (G.F.); (G.V.); (V.F.); (M.-N.L.)
- National Reference Centre for Emerging Risks in Food Safety (CRESA), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via Celoria 12, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Annalisa Scarazzato
- Food Safety Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via A. Bianchi 9, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (L.M.); (E.G.); (F.R.); (M.T.); (A.S.); (B.B.); (G.F.); (G.V.); (V.F.); (M.-N.L.)
| | - Barbara Bertasi
- Food Safety Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via A. Bianchi 9, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (L.M.); (E.G.); (F.R.); (M.T.); (A.S.); (B.B.); (G.F.); (G.V.); (V.F.); (M.-N.L.)
- National Reference Centre for Emerging Risks in Food Safety (CRESA), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via Celoria 12, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Guido Finazzi
- Food Safety Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via A. Bianchi 9, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (L.M.); (E.G.); (F.R.); (M.T.); (A.S.); (B.B.); (G.F.); (G.V.); (V.F.); (M.-N.L.)
- National Reference Centre for Emerging Risks in Food Safety (CRESA), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via Celoria 12, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Giorgio Varisco
- Food Safety Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via A. Bianchi 9, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (L.M.); (E.G.); (F.R.); (M.T.); (A.S.); (B.B.); (G.F.); (G.V.); (V.F.); (M.-N.L.)
- National Reference Centre for Emerging Risks in Food Safety (CRESA), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via Celoria 12, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Virginia Filipello
- Food Safety Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via A. Bianchi 9, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (L.M.); (E.G.); (F.R.); (M.T.); (A.S.); (B.B.); (G.F.); (G.V.); (V.F.); (M.-N.L.)
- National Reference Centre for Emerging Risks in Food Safety (CRESA), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via Celoria 12, 20133 Milan, Italy
| | - Marina-Nadia Losio
- Food Safety Department, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via A. Bianchi 9, 25124 Brescia, Italy; (L.M.); (E.G.); (F.R.); (M.T.); (A.S.); (B.B.); (G.F.); (G.V.); (V.F.); (M.-N.L.)
- National Reference Centre for Emerging Risks in Food Safety (CRESA), Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale della Lombardia e dell’Emilia Romagna (IZSLER), Via Celoria 12, 20133 Milan, Italy
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13
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Sobolik JS, Sajewski ET, Jaykus LA, Cooper DK, Lopman BA, Kraay AN, Ryan PB, Guest JL, Webb-Girard A, Leon JS. Decontamination of SARS-CoV-2 from cold-chain food packaging provides no marginal benefit in risk reduction to food workers. Food Control 2022; 136:108845. [PMID: 35075333 PMCID: PMC8770992 DOI: 10.1016/j.foodcont.2022.108845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Countries continue to debate the need for decontamination of cold-chain food packaging to reduce possible severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) fomite transmission among frontline workers. While laboratory-based studies demonstrate persistence of SARS-CoV-2 on surfaces, the likelihood of fomite-mediated transmission under real-life conditions is uncertain. Using a quantitative microbial risk assessment model of a frozen food packaging facility, we simulated 1) SARS-CoV-2 fomite-mediated infection risks following worker exposure to contaminated plastic packaging; and 2) reductions in these risks from masking, handwashing, and vaccination. In a frozen food facility without interventions, SARS-CoV-2 infection risk to a susceptible worker from contact with contaminated packaging was 1.5 × 10-3 per 1h-period (5th - 95th percentile: 9.2 × 10-6, 1.2 × 10-2). Standard food industry infection control interventions, handwashing and masking, reduced risk (99.4%) to 8.5 × 10-6 risk per 1h-period (5th - 95th percentile: 2.8 × 10-8, 6.6 × 10-5). Vaccination of the susceptible worker (two doses Pfizer/Moderna, vaccine effectiveness: 86-99%) with handwashing and masking reduced risk to 5.2 × 10-7 risk per 1h-period (5th - 95th percentile: 1.8 × 10-9, 5.4 × 10-6). Simulating increased transmissibility of current and future variants (Delta, Omicron), (2-, 10-fold viral shedding) among a fully vaccinated workforce, handwashing and masking continued to mitigate risk (1.4 × 10-6 - 8.8 × 10-6 risk per 1h-period). Additional decontamination of frozen food plastic packaging reduced infection risks to 1.2 × 10-8 risk per 1h-period (5th - 95th percentile: 1.9 × 10-11, 9.5 × 10-8). Given that standard infection control interventions reduced risks well below 1 × 10-4 (World Health Organization water quality risk thresholds), additional packaging decontamination suggest no marginal benefit in risk reduction. Consequences of this decontamination may include increased chemical exposures to workers, food quality and hazard risks to consumers, and unnecessary added costs to governments and the global food industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia S. Sobolik
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA,Corresponding author. 1518 Clifton Road NE, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | | | - Lee-Ann Jaykus
- Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC, 27695, USA
| | - D. Kane Cooper
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Ben A. Lopman
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Alicia N.M. Kraay
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - P. Barry Ryan
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Jodie L. Guest
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Amy Webb-Girard
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
| | - Juan S. Leon
- Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, 30322, USA
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14
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Cardinale D, Tafuro M, Mancusi A, Girardi S, Capuano F, Proroga YTR, Corrado F, D’Auria JL, Coppola A, Rofrano G, Volzone P, Galdi P, De Vita S, Gallo A, Suffredini E, Pierri B, Cerino P, Morgante M. Sponge Whirl-Pak Sampling Method and Droplet Digital RT-PCR Assay for Monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 on Surfaces in Public and Working Environments. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19105861. [PMID: 35627397 PMCID: PMC9141805 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19105861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 can spread directly via saliva, respiratory aerosols and droplets, and indirectly by contact through contaminated objects and/or surfaces and by air. In the context of COVID-19 fomites can be an important vehicle of virus transmission and contribute to infection risk in public environments. The aim of the study was to analyze through surface sampling (sponge method) the presence of SARS-CoV-2 in public and working environments, in order to evaluate the risk for virus transmission. Seventy-seven environmental samples were taken using sterile sponges in 17 animal farms, 4 public transport buses, 1 supermarket and 1 hotel receptive structure. Furthermore, 246 and 93 swab samples were taken in the farms from animals and from workers, respectively. SARS-CoV-2 detection was conducted by real-time RT-PCR and by digital droplet RT-PCR (dd RT-PCR) using RdRp, gene E and gene N as targets. None of the human and animal swab samples were positive for SARS-CoV-2, while detection was achieved in 20 of the 77 sponge samples (26%) using dd RT-PCR. Traces of the RdRp gene, gene E and gene N were found in 17/77 samples (22%, average concentration 31.2 g.c./cm2, range 5.6 to 132 g.c./cm2), 8/77 samples (10%, average concentration 15.1 g.c./cm2, range 6 to 36 g.c./cm2), and in 1/77 (1%, concentration 7.2 g.c./cm2). Higher detection rates were associated with sampling in animal farms and on public transport buses (32% and 30%) compared to the supermarket (21%) and the hotel (no detection). The result of the study suggests that the risk of contamination of surfaces with SARS-CoV-2 increases in environments in which sanitation strategies are not suitable and/or in highly frequented locations, such as public transportation. Considering the analytical methods, the dd RT-PCR was the only approach achieving detection of SARS-CoV-2 traces in environmental samples. Thus, dd RT-PCR emerges as a reliable tool for sensitive SARS-CoV-2 detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davide Cardinale
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Maria Tafuro
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Andrea Mancusi
- Department of Food Security Coordination, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.M.); (S.G.); (F.C.); (Y.T.R.P.)
| | - Santa Girardi
- Department of Food Security Coordination, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.M.); (S.G.); (F.C.); (Y.T.R.P.)
| | - Federico Capuano
- Department of Food Security Coordination, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.M.); (S.G.); (F.C.); (Y.T.R.P.)
| | - Yolande Thérèse Rose Proroga
- Department of Food Security Coordination, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (A.M.); (S.G.); (F.C.); (Y.T.R.P.)
| | - Federica Corrado
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Jacopo Luigi D’Auria
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Annachiara Coppola
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Giuseppe Rofrano
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Palmiero Volzone
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Pio Galdi
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Sabato De Vita
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Alfonso Gallo
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Elisabetta Suffredini
- Department of Food Safety, Nutrition and Veterinary Public Health, Istituto Superiore di Sanità, Viale Regina Elena, 299, 00161 Rome, Italy;
| | - Biancamaria Pierri
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Pellegrino Cerino
- Centro di Referenza Nazionale per l’Analisi e Studio di Correlazione tra Ambiente, Animale e Uomo, Istituto Zooprofilattico Sperimentale del Mezzogiorno, Via Salute n. 2, 80055 Portici, Italy; (D.C.); (M.T.); (F.C.); (J.L.D.); (A.C.); (G.R.); (P.V.); (P.G.); (S.D.V.); (A.G.); (P.C.)
| | - Maria Morgante
- Azienda Sanitaria Locale Avellino, 83100 Avellino, Italy;
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15
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Molloy S, Varkey P, Walker TR. Opportunities for single-use plastic reduction in the food service sector during COVID-19. SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTION AND CONSUMPTION 2022; 30:1082-1094. [PMID: 35132385 PMCID: PMC8806402 DOI: 10.1016/j.spc.2022.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic caused a surge in consumption of single-use plastics (SUPs), particularly in the food service sector, due to concerns for public health and safety. To follow public health guidelines, food services have been limited to takeout service and have restricted use of personal reusable items. This study investigated opportunities to reduce increased use of SUPs in Nova Scotia food services sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic using semi-structured interviews and focus groups with stakeholders from the food service sector. Many participants had already implemented SUP reduction strategies prior to COVID-19. However, the COVID-19 pandemic forced businesses to rely on SUPs and to pause SUP reduction strategies. Obstacles to SUP reduction included operational challenges from COVID-19 restrictions, misunderstanding of local waste management systems, costs of transitioning to zero plastic waste, poorly manufactured alternatives, greenwashing, and ingrained societal convenience culture. Whilst not all SUP consumption patterns were attributed to COVID-19, these barriers prevented food retailers, waste managers and consumers from achieving zero-plastic waste goals. Food services should adopt SUP reduction strategies, including re-introducing reusables, implementing exchange programs for bulk items and takeout, providing education and awareness to staff and consumers, and sourcing sustainable SUP alternatives. SUP reduction strategies can be implemented immediately as public health officials and researchers agree reusable items can be used safely when using basic hygiene measures. Food services across Nova Scotia should adapt their operational procedures and create behaviour change to reduce SUPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen Molloy
- School for Resource and Environmental Studies, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Priyanka Varkey
- School for Resource and Environmental Studies, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
| | - Tony R Walker
- School for Resource and Environmental Studies, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
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