In April 2021, air sampling was conducted in outdoor restaurant terraces in three major cities in Portugal to collect data on the presence of SARS-CoV-2. Nineteen air samples were collected during lunchtime using Bertin’ Coriolis Compact air sampler, and one of the samples tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA. This low number of positive samples was expected due to quick aerosol dispersion and optimal air circulation in outdoor settings. These results were consistent with previous reports showing that the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in outdoor spaces was low.
In this article, the authors point out that the detection of a small amount of SARS-CoV-2 in an outdoor environment is possible thanks to the efficiency of the Coriolis Compact. While eating and drinking outdoors has been associated with an increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection, this study shows that transmission in outdoor settings is still low.
