Alliance for Pandemic Preparedness

January 14, 2021

Modelling Pool Testing for SARS-CoV-2: Addressing Heterogeneity in Populations

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A modeling study suggests that pooled SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR testing where samples are pooled according to age group could decrease the number of tests per subject needed to diagnose one case, compared to conventional pooling that determines group size according to community prevalence. Though the decrease is small, large-scale testing could amplify savings, particularly in settings where there is more heterogeneity in positivity rates among age groups.

Fernández-Salinas et al. (Dec 28, 2020). Modelling Pool Testing for SARS-CoV-2: Addressing Heterogeneity in Populations. Epidemiology and Infection. https://doi.org/10.1017/S0950268820003052