Definition of an Indoor Air Sampling Strategy for SARS-CoV-2 Detection and Risk Management: Case Study in...

Area of Science:

• Environmental Health
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic highlights the importance of controlling indoor environments to prevent SARS-CoV-2 transmission.
• Airborne transmission via droplets and aerosols is a dominant route for SARS-CoV-2 spread.
• Limited studies and lack of standard guidelines hinder effective indoor air monitoring for SARS-CoV-2.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a comprehensive strategy for setting up indoor air sampling plans for SARS-CoV-2 detection.
• To critically analyze existing indoor air quality standards and guidelines.
• To provide a tool for managing airborne SARS-CoV-2 infection risk.

Main Methods:

• Critical analysis of existing indoor air quality standards.
• Development of a strategy for indoor air sampling plans.
• Case study implementation in 19 classrooms across two kindergartens in Milan, Italy.

Main Results:

• The proposed strategy proved to be complete, effective, and suitable for airborne SARS-CoV-2 risk management.
• The case study involved 290 children and 47 teachers.
• Demonstrated the feasibility and utility of structured air sampling in educational settings.

Conclusions:

• The developed strategy is a key tool for managing airborne SARS-CoV-2 infection risk.
• Standardized air sampling plans are essential for reliable virus detection and risk assessment.
• Further research is needed to refine and expand air monitoring protocols.