Abstract
A new coronavirus-strain from a zoonotic reservoir (probably bat)—termed as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)—has recently claimed more than two million deaths worldwide. Consequently, a burst of scientific reports on epidemiology, symptoms, and diagnosis came out. However, a comprehensive understanding of eco-environmental aspects that may contribute to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) spread is still missing, and we therefore aim to focus here on these aspects. In addition to human–human direct SARS-CoV-2 transmission, eco-environmental sources, such as air aerosols, different public use objects, hospital wastes, livestock/pet animals, municipal wastes, ventilation facilities, soil and groundwater potentially contribute to SARS-CoV-2 transmission. Further, high temperature and humidity were found to limit the spread of COVID-19. Although the COVID-19 pandemic led to decrease air and noise pollution during the period of lockdown, increased use of masks and gloves is threatening the environment by water and soil pollutions. COVID-19 badly impacted all the socio-economic groups in different capacities, where women, slum dwellers, and the people lacking social protections are the most vulnerable. Finally, sustainable strategies, waste management, biodiversity reclaim, eco-friendly lifestyle, improved health infrastructure and public awareness, were proposed to minimize the COVID-19 impact on our society and environment. These strategies will seemingly be equally effective against any future outbreak.
Highlights
A new coronavirus-strain from a zoonotic reservoir—termed as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)—has recently claimed more than two million deaths worldwide
Some preliminary evidence shows that environmentally facilitated corona viral transmission may be possible, that COVID-19 patients could get the virus through connection with abiotic built-environmental surfaces [6]
During the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak in China, viral RNA was found in the feces of the patients [21], and another study reported the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in the wastewater discharge from a (COVID-19 designated) hospital in China, which indicates the potential of virus to contaminate the drainage system [36]
Summary
The novel coronavirus was isolated in Wuhan, China in December 2019, whereas another study reported this virus to be present in Barcelona wastewater during March. 2019 [7], suggesting that the novel coronavirus was already in the environment before the. The histories and information gathered from the early patients traced this virus back (and even linked in some ways) to the Wuhan local animal (seafood) market, suggesting a direct food-based spread to human [8]. These observations suggest that animals are the likely origin of this novel coronavirus. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) [9].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: International journal of environmental research and public health
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
