Studies conducted in a hospital to recover SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, demonstrated the presence of the pathogen in the airborne environment. Viral RNA was identified in six patient rooms, applying real-time reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. It is significant that the virus was isolated from droplets over a range of one to four microns and also less than one micron in size. Additional techniques to demonstrate the virus included cell culture, transmission electron microscopy, and Western blot assay.
Demonstrating that viable virus is present in aerosol form with a particle size less than one micron is of significance in developing appropriate methods to prevent transmission of COVID in the absence of an effective vaccine. Additional studies are in progress to determine the quantum of virus present in aerosol particles and the duration of viability.
It is evident from the initial study that face masks are an effective means of suppressing transmission of infection. The installation of dry hydrogen generators in areas where workers congregate in plants, such as change rooms, breakrooms or offices is justified. Similarly, installation of units within HVAC systems would be beneficial as demonstrated in the extensive outbreak in the Tönnies hog plant in Gutersloh, Germany.