Particulate matter (PM2.5) as a potential SARS-CoV-2 carrier

Abstract

Abstract The rapid spread of the SARS-CoV-2 in the COVID-19 pandemic had raised questions on the route of transmission of this disease. Initial understanding was that transmission originated from respiratory droplet from an infected host to a susceptible host. However, indirect contact transmission of viable virus by fomites and through aerosols has also been suggested. Herein, we report the involvement of fine indoor air particulate with the diameter of ≤ 2.5 µm (PM 2.5 ) as the transport agent of the virus. PM 2.5 was collected over four weeks during a 48 hours measurement intervals in four separate wards containing different infected clusters in a teaching hospital in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Our results indicated highest SARS-CoV-2 RNA on PM 2.5 in the ward associated with a lavatory. We suggest a link between the virus-laden PM 2.5 and the ward’s design. Patients’ symptoms and numbers that govern the magnitude of viral shedding may also influence the number of airborne SARS-CoV-2 RNA on PM 2.5 in an enclosed environment.