Environmental surface contamination with SARS-CoV-2 in professional football clubs

Background: We assessed SARS-CoV-2 contamination of random surfaces in football training facilities in an environment with a high prevalence of infections. Methods: In six clubs of the Qatar Stars League, surfaces of random locations (high-touch areas, ventilation systems, toilets, cleaning tools, freezers, pantries) in routinely cleaned training facilities, locker rooms, medical and administrative areas were swabbed for SARS-CoV-2. The swabs were screened for the presence of viral RNA using a SARS-CoV-2 qPCR Probe Assay. Results: None of the 103 swabs reached a cycle threshold (cT) value <= 30 (strong viral presence, suggestive of potential surface transmission). Four samples showed cT values >30 and <35 (low quantity of virus) and 16 swabs returned a cT value >= 35 and <40 (inactive virus remnants). The remaining 83 samples were negative (cT value >= 40). Most samples with viral or viral remnant presence originated from high-touch areas. Conclusion: We did not find evidence for potential surface transmission in football club facilities when routine cleaning procedures are in place despite the presence of infected subjects.