SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Superspreader Events

Overview

Journal J Infect

Specialty Infectious Diseases

Date 2020 Nov 27

PMID 33245943

Citations 60

Authors

Dasha Majra

Jayme Benson

Jennifer Pitts

Justin Stebbing

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Background & Objectives: A significant number of reported COVID-19 cases can be traced back to superspreader events (SSEs), where a disproportionally large number of secondary cases relative to the standard reproductive rate, R0, are initiated. Although a superspreader is an individual who undergoes more viral shedding and transmission than others, it appears likely that environmental factors have a substantial role in SSEs. We categorise SSEs into two distinct groups: 'societal' and 'isolated' SSEs.

Methods: We summarise SSEs that have occurred using multiple databases that have been cross referenced to ensure numbers are as reliable as we can ascertain. This enables more focussed and productive control of the current pandemic and future pandemics, especially as countries and regions ease lockdown restrictions.

Results And Discussion: 'Societal' SSEs pose a significant threat as members of the event are free to mingle and can infect individuals in the outside community. On the other hand, 'isolated' SSEs can be effectively quarantined as only a few individuals can transmit the virus from the isolated community to the outside community, therefore lowering further societal infection.

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