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SARS-CoV-2 RNA Detection on Environmental Surfaces in a University Setting of Central Italy

Author

Listed:
  • Anna Casabianca

    (Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy
    These authors contributed equally to this work.)

  • Chiara Orlandi

    (Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy
    These authors contributed equally to this work.)

  • Giulia Amagliani

    (Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy)

  • Mauro Magnani

    (Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy)

  • Giorgio Brandi

    (Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy)

  • Giuditta Fiorella Schiavano

    (Department of Humanities, University of Urbino Carlo Bo, 61029 Urbino, Italy)

Abstract

The transmission of SARS-CoV-2 occurs through direct contact (person to person) and indirect contact by means of objects and surfaces contaminated by secretions from individuals with COVID-19 or asymptomatic carriers. In this study, we evaluated the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA on surfaces made of different materials located in university environments frequented by students and staff involved in academy activity during the fourth pandemic wave (December 2021). A total of 189 environmental samples were collected from classrooms, the library, computer room, gym and common areas and subjected to real-time PCR assay to evaluate the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA by amplification of the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) gene. All samples gave a valid result for Internal Process Control and nine (4.8%) tested very low positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA amplification with a median Ct value of 39.44 [IQR: 37.31–42.66] (≤1 copy of viral genome). Our results show that, despite the prevention measures implemented, the presence of infected subjects cannot be excluded, as evidenced by the recovery of SARS-CoV-2 RNA from surfaces. The monitoring of environmental SARS-CoV-2 RNA could support public health prevention strategies in the academic and school world.

Suggested Citation

  • Anna Casabianca & Chiara Orlandi & Giulia Amagliani & Mauro Magnani & Giorgio Brandi & Giuditta Fiorella Schiavano, 2022. "SARS-CoV-2 RNA Detection on Environmental Surfaces in a University Setting of Central Italy," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(9), pages 1-9, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:19:y:2022:i:9:p:5560-:d:807984
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Maria Teresa Montagna & Osvalda De Giglio & Carla Calia & Chrysovalentinos Pousis & Francesca Apollonio & Carmen Campanale & Giusy Diella & Marco Lopuzzo & Angelo Marzella & Francesco Triggiano & Vinc, 2021. "First Detection of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 on the Surfaces of Tourist-Recreational Facilities in Italy," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(6), pages 1-6, March.
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