Influenza virus RNA recovered from droplets and droplet nuclei emitted by adults in an acute care setting

AbstractTransmission in hospital settings of seasonal influenza viruses and novel agents such as the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) is well-described but poorly understood. The characterization of potentially infectious bio-aerosols in the healthcare setting remains an important yet ill-defined factor in the transmission of respiratory viruses. Empiric data describing the distribution of bio-aerosols enable discernment of potential exposure risk to respiratory viruses. We sought to determine the distribution of influenza virus RNA emitted into the air by participants with laboratory-confirmed influenza, and whether these emissions had the potential to reach healthcare workers’ breathing zones. Two-stage cyclone bio-aerosol samplers from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health were placed 0.5–1.0 m (near field) and 2.1–2.5 m (far field) from infected patient participants, as well as in the corridor immediately outside t...