Outbreak investigation in a COVID-19 designated hospital: The combination of phylogenetic analysis and field epidemiology study suggesting airborne transmission.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Healthcare-associated COVID-19 infections caused by SARS-CoV-2 have increased morbidity and mortality. Hospitals and skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) have been challenged by infection control and management.

Methods

This case study presents an outbreak investigation in a COVID-19-designated hospital and a hospital-based SNF. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and other studies were performed on samples obtained from SNF residents, hospital patients, and healthcare workers (HCWs). The results of the laboratory tests and field epidemiological data were analyzed. Genome sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of SARS-CoV-2 were performed to identify the associations between cases. The tracer gas was released and recorded by a thermal imaging camera to investigat

SUBMITTER: Huang YC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9841729 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature