Viral Dynamics of Omicron in Children

Viral Dynamics of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron Variant in Paediatric Patients

SARS-CoV-2 transmission is dependent on multiple factors, which may be related to either host-virus interaction or the environment. While there have been several studies evaluation viral dynamics and transmission risk in adults, there is limited pediatric data available. The objective of this study is to characterize the period of communicability for children less than 19 years of age with SARS-CoV-2 infection with the Omicron variant.

The goal of our study is to assess the viral dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 infection in children < 19 years with acute infection to inform public health practice.

Specific Aims:

1. Describe the kinetics of SARS-CoV-2 viral load in children with acute SARS-CoV-2 infection
2. Assess the impact of various host factors on viral dynamics, including age (<1 year, 1-4 years, 5-11 years, 12-18 years), symptoms, clinical severity (hospitalization vs. outpatient), comorbidities (immunocompromised vs. not immunocompromised), vaccination (none, 1 dose, 2 doses)
3. Estimate the time point at which children are less likely to be infectious
4. Assess the sensitivity of self-collected rapid antigen testing (RAT) in children, compared to PCR (e.g. assess RAT test performance in children)

To be included in the study, the participant must be:

1. Less than 19 years of age
2. Have a positive molecular or rapid antigen test in the previous 48 hours
3. If symptomatic, onset of any COVID-19 symptom within last 72 hours.
4. If asymptomatic, evidence to support acute infection (e.g. negative PCR in the last 5 days, known household exposure where index case is clear)
5. Able to collect daily samples