SARS-CoV-2 transmission in secondary schools and the influence of indoor environmental conditions

Project description Much is still unknown about the role of secondary schools in the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, but various circumstances make the risk of spread very real; Pre- or asymptomatic adolescents can spread the virus unnoticed through direct or indirect contact or through exhaled small droplets in the air ('aerosols'). The role of SARS-CoV-2 diffusion via the air is still uncertain, but may be relevant for conditions in schools with regard to air quality and ventilation. This project aims to quantify the SARS-CoV-2 spread in secondary schools this fall. The degree of diffusion via different transmission routes is studied in detail and related to the quality of the indoor environment and the occupancy in classrooms. This project will also specifically investigate the potential for SARS-CoV-2 aerosol transmission under various experimental conditions in lab studies and relate this to the observations in schools.