The period of communicability of symptomatic SARS CoV-2 infections remains unclear.
Viral RNA shedding measured from the onset of illness is a common proxy used to estimate the period of communicability; however, confirmation of the viability of viral remnants in secretions through culture or other methods seldom occurs in practice.
Several factors including age, male sex and clinical severity influence individual variation in viral shedding and suggest the need for tailored control efforts.
Temporal patterns in viral shedding across different types of bodily secretions has implications for transmissibility and criteria for discontinuation of control measures during convalescence.
Williams-Roberts, H; Lee, S; Young, C; Dalidowicz, M; Mueller, M. What is the period of communicability of symptomatic SARS CoV-2? 2020 Apr 27; Document no.: INF042401 RR. In: COVID-19 Rapid Evidence Reviews [Internet]. SK: SK COVID Evidence Support Team, c2020. 24 p. (CEST rapid review report)