SARS-CoV-2 genetic material can be detected in human stool. But does this also mean that the coronavirus can spread through faeces and that special preventive measures are necessary again?
Corona viruses in stool samples
A new analysis of various studies looked at the question of whether SARS-CoV-2 can be transmitted through excretions. The test results were presented in the English-language journal “International Journal of Infectious Diseases”.
Some research has already demonstrated the presence of genetic material from the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus in faeces. Most of the studies, however, primarily dealt with viral RNA instead of the infectious virus. It was therefore necessary to clarify whether the virus could also spread through the stool.
Study results
The research team led by E. Susan Admirian from Rice University therefore focused on the literature available to date for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in the stool of Covid-19 patients. According to Admirian, a few studies have suggested that feces can contain infectious viruses.
According to the study author, the existence of genetic material from the virus is not a cause for concern, but if future studies continue to show infectious amounts of viable viruses in the stool, this means that infection via the fecal-oral route is possible.
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Importance of knowledge
Such a find could have far-reaching consequences for public life. In particular nursing staff, as well as people from the hotel and restaurant industry would be affected.
According to Admirian, research is needed to clarify whether exposure to fecal matter promotes the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and worsens the pandemic. But even if this has not yet been clarified, one should be careful when considering the possibility when it comes to the corona risk groups.
Strict consideration of hygiene measures has no disadvantages and can only help to further limit the spread of the corona virus. Traces of faeces can spread numerous diseases, including hepatitis A and the norovirus. The uncompromising observance of hygiene rules is essential until it is clear whether Covid-19 can be transferred in this way.
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