Molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses in saliva and classroom air: a two winters tale

• DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2024.03.002
• Publication Date: 2024-03-11T01:16:09Z
• Authors: Nicolas Banholzer; Pascal Bittel; Philipp Jent; Lavinia Furrer; Kathrin Zürcher; Matthias Egger; Tina Hascher; Lukas Fenner
• Keywords: 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak; Betacoronavirus; Coronavirus Infections; Sars virus

ObjectivesTo compare the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 and other respiratory viruses in saliva bioaerosols between two winters model probability virus detection classroom air for different viruses.MethodsWe analyze saliva, air, cleaner filter samples from studies conducted Swiss secondary schools (age 14-17 years) over seven weeks during 2021/22 2022/23. Two bioaerosol sampling devices HEPA filters cleaners were used to collect airborne particles five classrooms. Daily pooled each device before PCR analysis a panel 19 viral subtypes. The was modelled using an adjusted Bayesian logistic regression model.ResultsThree classes (58 students) participated 2021/22, (38 During winter dominated (19 21 positive samples) (9 10). One year later, there 50 samples, mostly influenza B, rhinovirus, adenovirus, one rhinovirus adenovirus. weekly 34% (95%-credible interval [CrI] 22%−47%) 10% (95%-CrI 5%-16%) viruses.ConclusionsThere distinct shift distribution Omicron wave later. is more likely be detected than endemic viruses, possibly reflecting differences characteristics composition virus-carrying that facilitate long-range transmission.