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SARS-CoV-2 outbreak investigation in a German meat processing plant
Thomas Günther1, Manja Czech-Sioli2, Daniela Indenbirken1
1Heinrich Pette Institute, Leibniz Institute for Experimental Virology, Hamburg, Germany.
EMBO Molecular Medicine
|October 4, 2020
Summary
A single SARS-CoV-2 (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2) case infected coworkers over 8m in a German meat plant. Climate, ventilation, and airflow were key factors in this large outbreak.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Virology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Large SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks have occurred in industrial settings globally.
- Meat processing facilities present unique challenges for infection control due to close working conditions and climate control systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the multifactorial drivers of a significant SARS-CoV-2 outbreak in a German meat processing complex.
- To analyze transmission dynamics, including environmental and genomic factors.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of infection timing, spatial data, climate, and ventilation within the facility.
- Investigation of shared living quarters and transport.
- Viral whole-genome sequencing to trace transmission pathways.
Main Results:
- A single index case transmitted SARS-CoV-2 over distances exceeding 8 meters in a recirculated, cooled air environment.
- Viral genome sequencing identified a novel SARS-CoV-2 sub-branch linked to the outbreak.
- Climate conditions, fresh air exchange rates, and airflow were identified as critical factors promoting long-distance transmission.
Conclusions:
- Industrial workplace settings, particularly those with specific climate and ventilation conditions, can facilitate efficient, long-distance SARS-CoV-2 spread.
- Findings offer insights into essential pandemic mitigation strategies for similar environments.
