Hospital Air Infrequently Contaminated With Viral Coronavirus

A systematic review of 24 observational studies published in JAMA Network Open on December 24, 2020, there were few (8.6%) samples found containing viable SARS-CoV-2 viruses in the air close to hospitalized patients.

'The presence of viable viruses should be primarily considered, given that it is a required link for the potential of cross-transmission. The available data suggest that COVID-19 requires particular conditions to be transmitted through the air,' said these researchers.

The study authors identify a 'wide variability in the air sampling methods and poorly detailed climatic conditions can affect the capacity for viral particles to remain suspended in the air.'