June 25, 2020

Prolonged Infectivity of SARS-CoV-2 in Fomites

Category: Article Summary

Topic: Transmission

• Pastorino et al. deposited liquid with SARS-CoV-2 on polystyrene plastic, aluminum, and glass surfaces for and evaluated the viral stability and infectivity for 96 hours. They observed the longest period of infectivity on plastic polystyrene surfaces. Using bovine serum albumin to mimic protein content within body fluids of the respiratory system, the authors concluded that moderate protein concentration in droplets (such as from airway secretions) markedly increased the infectivity of SARS-CoV-2. The authors note that other components of respiratory body fluids, such as enzymes and mucins, may have a negative effect on virus infectivity. 

Pastorino et al. (June 24, 2020). Prolonged Infectivity of SARS-CoV-2 in Fomites. Emerging Infectious Diseases. https://doi.org/10.3201/eid2609.201788