Recently, two weeks ago, a research group collects air samples from several rooms at Skåne University Hospital where corona-infected patients are cared for. This is done via a small pump that sucks the air into liquid, which is then analyzed.

Air samples are also taken in surrounding areas such as in the air locks into the rooms and in the corridors outside.

- Air is spread in many ways, for example via the ventilation. So we want to see how far the virus is moving, says Jakob Löndahl, associate professor of aerosol technology at LTH.

Jakob Löndahl is a lecturer in aerosol technology at LTH. Photo: Firas Razak

Viruses can get out into corridors

The research group has previously investigated how the winter sickness spread through air and found that smaller amounts of virus via air currents spread out in corridors outside the patient center.

- But then it was about smaller quantities and so it is probably even now, says Jakob Löndahl.

200 air samples are analyzed

The researchers wear the same kind of protective equipment as the care staff. Samples are taken at about two meters distance when patients are at rest and in connection with various care activities.

- When the respiratory tubes are replaced, there is an air flow from the patient's mouth. And when the patient is turned or moved, the air is also set in motion, says Jakob Löndahl.

A total of about 200 air samples are taken to be analyzed as soon as possible. However, no reply is expected until a couple of months.

- It is bad if staff can devote themselves to analyzes right now, everyone is needed in health care, Jakob Löndahl notes.