Resuspension of Virus (MS2) from Soft Surfaces during Indoor Activities

Humans spend 90% of their time in the built environment, and microorganisms from human activity often represent an unidentified risk factor. Contaminated soft surfaces can be a major source of unknown resuspension and pathogen exposure. Our study goal is to investigate the dissemination and resuspension of viruses from soft surfaces after indoor activities (i.e., sitting in chair, and opening a curtain). Virus (MS2 bacteriophage) was inoculated onto a cotton and plastic curtain, a lounge and dining chair with and without a dust matrix, and indoor activities were conducted (sitting, and opening curtain). A statistically significant difference was found between viruses associated with dust compared to tripartite matrix when curtains were opened. Thus, indicating greater exposure to virus laden dust particles. No difference was found between the types of chairs with dust matrix. Indicating chair type or cushioning had little to no impact on dispersion of virus particle.