High Prevalence of Asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Skilled Nursing Facilities

A multistate study showed that 40% of skilled nursing facility SARS-CoV-2 infections were asymptomatic.

Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from asymptomatic or presymptomatic individuals complicates public health measures intended to control the pandemic. The proportion of asymptomatic or presymptomatic infections in congregate care facilities — which house a population with medical comorbidities and increased risk for severe disease — is not clear. Now, researchers report the results of point-prevalence surveys and symptom- or exposure-driven testing at 182 skilled nursing facilities (SNFs).

At least one case of SARS-CoV-2 infection was identified at 182 SNFs in 20 states. Cases were classified as asymptomatic, presymptomatic, or symptomatic based on review of nurses' notes beginning 5 days before to 14 days after the initial positive test. Either un…

Reviewing Author

Daniel Kaul, MD

Disclosures

Grant/Research SupportNobelpharma; Pfizer

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Transplantation (Program Committee)

Daniel Kaul, MD

Disclosures

Grant/Research SupportNobelpharma; Pfizer

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican Society of Transplantation (Program Committee)

High Prevalence of Asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Skilled Nursing Facilities

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Reviewing Author