December 1, 2020

Large-Scale Testing of Asymptomatic Healthcare Personnel for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2

Category: Article Summary

Topic: Testing and Treatment

Keywords (Tags): testing

Large-scale one-time testing of over 12,000 asymptomatic healthcare personnel (HCP) in the San Francisco Bay Area during April-June 2020 found low SARS-CoV-2 prevalence (0.2% by RT-PCR and 0.9% by serology tests). Most SARS-CoV-2-infected HCP were involved with direct patient care. One asymptomatic person with high viral load was identified, which, although rare, highlights the potential for mass asymptomatic testing to prevent further transmission. 

Hogan et al. (Nov 30, 2021). Large-Scale Testing of Asymptomatic Healthcare Personnel for Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2. Emerging Infectious Diseases. https://doi.org/10.3201/eid2701.203892