Transmission & Prevention
Genomic evidence of points to in-flight transmission of SARS-CoV-2 despite predeparture testing. A study by the New Zealand Ministry of Health looking at the points of infection and transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in 86 people returning to New Zealand through an international flight from Dubai, UAE. Passengers were placed in managed isolation and quarantine and tested for SARS-CoV-2 on their third and twelfth day after their return; 7 passengers subsequently tested positive for COVID-19. Through contract tracing, Viral genome sequencing, examining seating plans, and dates of disease onset, in-flight transmission was indicated, demonstrating the potential risk of transmission during long-haul flights despite a negative pre-departure test and reported in-flight use of mask and gloves.
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