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Normal breathing releases SARS-CoV-2 into the air
Piero Di Carlo1,2, Katia Falasca3,4, Claudio Ucciferri3,4
1University "G. d'Annunzio" of Chieti-Pescara, Department of Advanced Technologies in Medicine & Dentistry, Chieti, Italy.
Journal of Medical Microbiology
|February 25, 2021
Summary
SARS-CoV-2 RNA can be released into the air through normal breathing, even without symptoms. This finding suggests that close proximity to an infected individual poses a contagion risk.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Respiratory Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- The transmission routes of SARS-CoV-2, the virus causing COVID-19, are critical for public health interventions.
- Understanding viral shedding during asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic periods is essential for controlling outbreaks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential release of SARS-CoV-2 RNA into exhaled air during normal breathing.
- To determine if asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic individuals can transmit the virus through respiration.
Main Methods:
- Real-time reverse transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR) was used to detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA.
- Oropharyngeal, nasopharyngeal, and salivary swabs were collected from five patients.
- Air samples were collected using a microbiological sampler at 1 cm from the patient's mouth.
Main Results:
- SARS-CoV-2 RNA was detected in air samples from patients who tested positive via swabs.
- Viral RNA was not found in air samples from patients who tested negative via swabs.
- Detection occurred during normal breathing, without coughing, sneezing, or talking.
Conclusions:
- SARS-CoV-2 can be released into the air through normal respiration.
- Close proximity to an infected individual, even if asymptomatic, presents a risk of contagion.
- This highlights the importance of measures like mask-wearing and social distancing, even in the absence of symptoms.
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