Targeted Hygiene reduces surface transmission and infection risk for respiratory viruses

Abstract

Abstract Background In public spaces, the importance of surface contamination in the transmission of respiratory viruses has been debated. This study aimed to compare the spread of a surrogate virus in a hotel lobby before and after a Targeted Hygiene intervention, and to quantify the reduction in risk of infection from respiratory diseases. Methods In a working hotel lobby, 13 fomites were seeded with a bacteriophage (Phi-X174) tracer at 8 am; 4 hours later 25 surfaces were swabbed to determine baseline tracer distribution and contamination levels. This was then repeated with the addition of a pre-determined Targeted Hygiene intervention performed 2 hours after seeding. Four replicate baseline and intervention trials were conducted, and data were compared for statistically significant (p < 0.05) differences. Risk of infection was estimated via Quantitative Microbial Risk Assessment modelling. Results Following the Targeted Hygiene intervention there was a significant reduction in the spread of the tracer (contamination of 13% of sampled surfaces vs. 50% at baseline). Tracer concentrations (PFU/site) were significantly lower overall (9.1E+02 PFU vs. 5.8E+04 PFU, p < 0.0001), including surfaces that had not been disinfected. Our model estimates that the risk of infection from common respiratory viruses via surface transmission was reduced by 97%. Conclusions Extensive spread of surface contamination can occur in a hotel lobby in as little as 4 hours. This study demonstrates how a Targeted Hygiene intervention can significantly disrupt the journey of the germ, even on surfaces not cleaned and disinfected, resulting in a consequent reduction of infection risk via surface transmission of common respiratory infections. This demonstrates the value of carrying out effective hygiene interventions to those managing commercial spaces. Key messages • Targeted Hygiene can significantly reduce the spread of respiratory pathogens via surface transmission, providing a means for facilities managers to achieve high standards using a targeted approach. • The Targeted Hygiene approach can significantly reduce the risk of infection from common respiratory viruses via surface transmission in public spaces.