Coronavirus Disease Portal|Home|PHGKB

Coronavirus Disease Portal|Home|PHGKB

 Spotlight on COVID-19

Using viral genomics to estimate undetected infections and extent of superspreading events for COVID-19
LM Li et al MEDRXIV, June 7, 2020

This is the first study that incorporates both the viral genomes and time series case data in the estimation of undetected COVID-19 infections. Our findings suggest the presence of undetected infections broadly and that superspreading events are contributing less to observed dynamics than during the SARS epidemic in 2003.

Detection of SARS-Coronavirus-2 in wastewater, using the existing environmental surveillance network: An epidemiological gateway to an early warning for COVID-19 in communities.
S Sharif et al, MEDRXIV, June 7, 2020

78 wastewater samples collected from 38 districts across Pakistan, 74 wastewater samples from existing polio environment surveillance sites, were tested for presence of SARs-CoV-2. 21 wastewater samples (27%) from 13 districts turned to be positive on RT-qPCR. These findings strengthen the use of wastewater surveillance as an early warning system for COVID-19.

COVID-19 diagnostics in context
R Weissleder et al, Science Trans Med, June 3, 2020

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has highlighted the need for different types of diagnostics, comparative validation of new tests, faster approval by federal agencies, and rapid production of test kits to meet global demands. In this Perspective, we discuss the utility and challenges of current diagnostics for COVID-19.

COVID-19’s Impact on Genetics at One Medical Center in New York
EM Pereira et al, Genetics in Medicine, June 5, 2020

Due to the unique challenges of social distancing, attempting to keep workforce and patients safe, there have been rapid changes in delivering medical care across the country. We provide this commentary on challenges faced and lessons learned at an academic medical center by modifying how we provide genetic care to a diverse patient population.