How long can SARS-CoV-2 persist in human corpses?
Mario Gabbrielli, Claudia Gandolfo, Gabriele Anichini, Tommaso Candelori, Matteo Benvenuti, Gianni Gori Savellini, Maria Grazia Cusi
Abstract
We report the finding of the SARS-CoV-2 genome in the corpse of an exhumed infected person, one month after her death. The viral gene targets were still present in her lungs and heart, however, the virus was no longer alive. Infectious risks from human corpses should be considered.
Topics & Concepts
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)2019-20 coronavirus outbreakVirologyBiologyBetacoronavirusSars virusPandemicMedicinePathologyInfectious disease (medical specialty)DiseaseOutbreakSARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 ResearchSARS-CoV-2 detection and testingCOVID-19 diagnosis using AI