Coronavirus, COVID-19 Environmental Sampling Now Available

We hope everyone is staying safe out there and following recommendations from their local governments and the Centers for Disease Control.

In an effort to help curtail the further spread of the Coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic, we are now able to provide environmental surface sampling to determine the presence or absence of the virus. This type of sampling is meant to be used to determine the efficacy of disinfection, decontamination, and clean-up procedures on surfaces within a space, and is not meant for personal use or diagnosis of any kind of disease.

The environmental swab samples for SARS CoV-2 are performed by RT-PCR (real time polymerase chain reaction).  The test detects the genetic signature (RNA) of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in swab samples from contaminated environmental surfaces using clinical instrumentation for RT-PCR detection of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19).  RT-PCR, a molecular diagnostic test detects and quantifies the viral RNA using real time (RT) reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Positive results indicate the presence of the viral genetic material SARS- CoV-2 nucleic material. The results are reported as detect or non-detect per sample provided.

Supplies for the collection and analysis of these environmental surface swab samples are limited. While this type of testing will be a good choice for some locations, a viable, and much more affordable, alternative to directly testing for the RNA of this particular virus, is to perform surface sampling for generic biological contamination, i.e. surface bacteria and fungi. Viva EHS is able to provide both of these sampling plans and develop decontamination and disinfection protocols for any type of facility.

Please remember to wash your hands, stay inside, and if our services are needed, contact us for a free quote today!