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SARS-CoV-2 cold-chain transmission: Characteristics, risks, and strategies
Cao Chen1,2,3,4, Yenan Feng1,2, Zhixiao Chen1,2
1National Institute for Viral Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 102206, Beijing, China.
Cold environments facilitate severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) survival and spread via cold chains. This review examines SARS-CoV-2 cold-chain transmission evidence and proposes countermeasures.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Virology
- Public Health
Background:
- Low temperatures and specific humidity levels promote the survival and long-distance spread of SARS-CoV-2.
- Contaminated cold-chain products and packaging serve as vectors for SARS-CoV-2 transmission.
- Imported cold-chain products have been linked to localized COVID-19 outbreaks in China, complicating control efforts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence of SARS-CoV-2 cold-chain transmission using data from six outbreaks in China.
- To summarize transmission characteristics and modes from Chinese and international suspected cold-chain outbreaks.
- To analyze risks and propose preventive strategies for SARS-CoV-2 cold-chain transmission.
Main Methods:
- Review of evidence from six confirmed cold-chain related COVID-19 outbreaks in China.
- Analysis of whole-genome sequencing and virus isolation data for SARS-CoV-2.
- Synthesis of transmission characteristics from global suspected cold-chain outbreaks.
Main Results:
- Evidence confirms SARS-CoV-2 transmission through cold-chain logistics and products.
- Whole-genome sequencing and virus isolation support cold-chain transmission routes.
- Identified high-risk populations include workers in ports, cold storage, and seafood markets.
Conclusions:
- Cold-chain transmission of SARS-CoV-2 poses a significant public health risk.
- Understanding transmission modes is crucial for effective prevention and control.
- Implementing targeted preventive countermeasures is essential to mitigate risks associated with cold-chain SARS-CoV-2 spread.
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