Contamination of SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA on personal protective equipment and environmental surfaces in nonpatient entry area of a Fangcang shelter hospital

Abstract

AbstractObjectivesTo determine the extent of contamination of personal protective equipment (PPE) and surfaces by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) in the nonpatient entry area of a Fangcang shelter hospital, the medical staff accommodation area, and the staff transport bus.MethodsWe collected 816 samples from the nonpatient entry area and floors in a Fangcang shelter hospital, medical staff accommodation area, and scheduled bus, and the five major types of PPE used from April 13 to May 18, 2022. SARS‐CoV‐2 ribonucleic acid (RNA) was detected by reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction.ResultsOverall, 22.2% of PPE samples were positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA. Boot covers and gowns were the most contaminated types of PPE. The positive PPE contamination rate of staff collecting respiratory specimens was significantly higher than that of the general–treatment staff group (35.8% vs. 12.2%) and cleaner group (35.8% vs. 26.4%), p < 0.01. In total, 27 of 265 (10.2%) environmental surface samples were positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA. The contamination‐positive rates were 26.8% (22/82), 5.4% (4/74), and 0.9% (1/109) for contaminated, potentially contaminated, and clean zones, respectively. SARS‐CoV‐2 RNA was frequently detected on objects such as mobile phones, tables, computer keyboards and mice, and door handles.ConclusionsSARS‐CoV‐2 RNA was widely distributed on high‐touch surfaces and on PPE in the contaminated zone of the Fangcang shelter hospital, implying a potentially high infection risk for healthcare workers. Our findings emphasize the need to ensure adequate environmental cleaning, improve hand hygiene, and reduce the risk of infection. Additionally, prevention of self‐contamination during PPE donning and doffing is complex and needs more research.