[The pitfalls of preventive testing for SARS-CoV-2].

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Increased SARS-CoV-2 testing capacity in the Netherlands.
• Growing trend of testing asymptomatic individuals for SARS-CoV-2.
• Preventive testing is crucial in high-risk sectors like professional sports.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the adequacy of current isolation guidelines for asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 positive individuals identified through preventive testing.
• To advocate for extended isolation periods for asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 positive cases detected via preventive screening.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of current RIVM isolation guidelines.
• Assessment of viral shedding and contagiousness in early-stage SARS-CoV-2 infections.
• Review of implications for preventive testing strategies.

Main Results:

• Current five-day isolation guideline may be insufficient for individuals diagnosed early through preventive testing.
• Asymptomatic individuals may still be in their most contagious phase after five days.
• Extended isolation is necessary to mitigate transmission risks from early-detected infections.

Conclusions:

• The five-day isolation period recommended by RIVM is inadequate for asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2 positive individuals identified via preventive testing.
• A longer isolation duration is recommended for these individuals to align with their infectious period.
• Revised guidelines are needed to effectively manage SARS-CoV-2 transmission in the context of widespread preventive testing.