Modelling testing and response strategies for COVID-19 outbreaks in remote Australian Aboriginal communities.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Remote Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities have potential to be severely impacted by COVID-19, with multiple factors predisposing to increased transmission and disease severity. Our modelling aims to inform optimal public health responses.

Methods

An individual-based simulation model represented SARS-CoV2 transmission in communities ranging from 100 to 3500 people, comprised of large, interconnected households. A range of strategies for case finding, quarantining of contacts, testing, and lockdown were examined, following the silent introduction of a case.

Results

Multiple secondary infections are likely present by the time the first case is identified. Quarantine of close contacts, defined by extended household membership, can redu

SUBMITTER: Hui BB 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8424150 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature