The Need

Viral disease surveillance (e.g. influenza, SARS-CoV-2) in high-risk settings faces several challenges, such as asymptomatic carriers, incomplete reporting, resource limitations, and delayed diagnosis of traditional swab test methods. These challenges could allow a virus to silently spread before it is detected and contained. A method is needed to detect viral disease in enclosed spaces that is simple to implement, detects infections early, and is non-invasive.

The Technology

Dr. Karen Dannemiller's lab has developed a method for surveillance of viral diseases in enclosed structures, like buildings, by collecting and analyzing dust samples. Dust collection is already part of routine cleaning procedures in many buildings, and this method can leverage existing infrastructure for surveillance.

Commercial Applications

This sampling technology benefits industries concerned with viral disease monitoring and mitigation, including:

• Public health: Proactive monitoring of outbreaks in high-risk settings like hospitals and schools. Proving it is safe to return to a previously infected area.
• Travel industry: Airports, cruise lines, and hospitality businesses can leverage dust sampling as part of their hygiene protocols.
• Retirement facilities: Ensures a healthy environment for vulnerable residents and staff.
• Infectious disease research: Measure and analyze infection rates in a population.

Benefits/Advantages

Dr. Dannemiller's technology offers several compelling benefits and advantages:

• Early warning: Dust analysis can detect viruses before people get sick, allowing for quicker intervention.
• Continuous monitoring: Dust collection can be integrated into cleaning routines for ongoing surveillance.
• Non-invasive: Dust sampling avoids frequent individual testing.

PCT Filed (USA)