Alliance for Pandemic Preparedness

September 1, 2020

A Simple Approach to Optimum Pool Size for Pooled SARS-CoV-2 Testing

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  • In determining the optimal sample pooling size for large-scale SARS-CoV-2 testing, Regen et al. found that sample pooling only marginally improves testing capacities in high prevalence settings (>10%) while potentially substantially reducing costs and saving labor in low prevalence settings. The investigators derived a simple-to-use formula for calculating the optimal pool size given a target prevalence.

Regen et al. (Aug 22, 2020). A Simple Approach to Optimum Pool Size for Pooled SARS-CoV-2 Testing. International Journal of Infectious Diseases. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijid.2020.08.063