Focus: Infection Control

Study says coronavirus may linger in the air in patient bathrooms, staff areas

Researchers also found the concentration of the virus' genetic material in isolation wards and ventilated patient rooms was very low


The new coronavirus may linger in patients toilet areas, medical staff areas and areas prone to crowding, according to an article on the Becker’s Hospital Review website.

A study, published in Nature, examined the presence of the new coronavirus' genetic material in fine airborne particles in different areas of two Wuhan hospitals during the COVID-19 outbreak in February and March.

Researchers found the concentration of the virus' genetic material  in isolation wards and ventilated patient rooms was very low. But it was high in the patients' toilet areas, as well as two public areas prone to crowding.

They also found that in some medical staff areas that initially that high concentrations of the virus had their levels decreased until the virus was undetectable after rigorous sanitization.

Read the article.

 



May 11, 2020


Topic Area: Environmental Services


Recent Posts

Going Solar with No Upfront Costs

300 kW solar system and roof upgrade delivered with no upfront cost for medical center association.


Northwell Health Finds Energy Savings in Steam Systems

Case study: A proactive steam trap maintenance program is delivering millions in savings, fast payback and measurable carbon reductions across one of the nation’s largest health systems.


Endeavor Elmhurst Hospital Opens New 16-Bed Patient Observation Unit

The new patient unit marks the first completed project in a major campus expansion.


Sustainability as a Baseline in Healthcare Facilities

Hospitals can balance costs, build resilience and learn from global models for sustainable design to further their green goals.


Penobscot Valley Hospital Reports Data Security Incident

It immediately implemented its incident response procedures, took steps to secure systems and hired third-party forensic specialists to assist with an investigation.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.