Temporal Dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 Detection in Household Contacts: Divergences Between Time to First Positive Test, Symptom Onset, and Maximum Viral Load.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Understanding the temporal dynamics of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection is crucial for optimizing diagnostic strategies. This prospective cohort study aimed to quantify the temporal viral transmission dynamics and biomarker profiles among households containing a SARS-CoV-2-positive index patient (IP) and uninfected household contacts (HHCs).

Methods

IPs entered the study within 48 h after confirmation of SARS-CoV-2 through reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). During 10-13 follow-up visits at days 0-7, and every 3-4 days thereafter until day 30 (± 6 days), nasopharyngeal swab and saliva samples were collected from participants (IP and HHC), and quantified via RT-PCR. Viral loads were estimated from cycle

SUBMITTER: Berger A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12511481 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature