SARS-CoV-2 detection, viral load and infectivity over the course of an infection.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

To summarise the evidence on the detection pattern and viral load of SARS-CoV-2 over the course of an infection (including any asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic phase), and the duration of infectivity.

Methods

A systematic literature search was undertaken in PubMed, Europe PubMed Central and EMBASE from 30 December 2019 to 12 May 2020.

Results

We identified 113 studies conducted in 17 countries. The evidence from upper respiratory tract samples suggests that the viral load of SARS-CoV-2 peaks around symptom onset or a few days thereafter, and becomes undetectable about two weeks after symptom onset; however, viral loads from sputum samples may be higher, peak later and persist for longer. There is evidence of prolonged virus detection in stool samples, with u

SUBMITTER: Walsh KA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7323671 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature