SARS-COV-2 Detection From Used Surgical Mask

Overview

The real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test is regarded as the gold standard for SARS-CoV-2 detection. Proper specimen collection and obtaining a sufficient sample are the most important steps for laboratory diagnosis. The nasopharyngeal (NP) swab is recommended as the reference collection method. However, NP swab collection is invasive and uncomfortable for patients and poses some risk to healthcare workers. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection from used surgical masks with the NP swab method using RT-PCR testing

Proper specimen collection and obtaining sufficient samples are the most important steps for laboratory diagnosis of an infectious disease. Improper collection may lead to false or inconclusive test results. During the early stages of the COVID-19 outbreak, the Center for Disease Prevention and Control recommended collecting and testing an upper respiratory specimen \[4\]. Nasopharyngeal (NP) and oropharyngeal (OP) swabs are the preferred choice for initial SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic testing. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of SARS-CoV-2 RNA detection from used surgical masks with standard detection methods. We tested for SARS-CoV-2 RNA in masks from patients with COVID-19 that had been worn for eight hours and compared this with NP swabs using RT-PCR testing. Hospitalized patients with laboratory-confirmed COVID-19 were recruited to provide surgical masks. Collection of used surgical mask samples by patients themselves is easy, convenient, requires no sampling equipment and decreases the risk of healthcare personnel exposure to COVID-19. If SARS-CoV-2 RNA can be detected on used surgical mask samples, this may encourage patients to provide specimens for testing and help in early detection and transmission prevention. As an alternative method to NP swabs, it may facilitate timely diagnosis and treatment.

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