Transmission modes of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 and implications for infection control: a review

The complete picture regarding transmission modes of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is unknown. This review summarises the available evidence on its transmission modes, our preliminary research findings and implications for infection control policy, and outlines future...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Singapore medical journal 2022-02, Vol.63 (2), p.61-67
Main Authors: Ong, Sean Wei Xiang, Coleman, Kristen K, Chia, Po Ying, Thoon, Koh Cheng, Pada, Surinder, Venkatachalam, Indumathi, Fisher, Dale, Tan, Yian Kim, Tan, Boon Huan, Ng, Oon Tek, Ang, Brenda Sze Peng, Leo, Yee-Sin, Wong, Michelle Su Yen, Marimuthu, Kalisvar
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
COVID-19
Hospitals
Humans
Infection Control - methods
Personal Protective Equipment
Review
SARS-CoV-2
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Summary:The complete picture regarding transmission modes of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is unknown. This review summarises the available evidence on its transmission modes, our preliminary research findings and implications for infection control policy, and outlines future research directions. Environmental contamination has been reported in hospital settings occupied by infected patients, and is higher in the first week of illness. Transmission via environmental surfaces or fomites is likely, but decontamination protocols are effective in minimising this risk. The extent of airborne transmission is also unclear. While several studies have detected SARS-CoV-2 ribonucleic acid in air samples, none has isolated viable virus in culture. Transmission likely lies on a spectrum between droplet and airborne transmission, depending on the patient, disease and environmental factors. Singapore's current personal protective equipment and isolation protocols are sufficient to manage this risk.
ISSN:0037-5675
2737-5935
DOI:10.11622/smedj.2020114