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Genomic Evidence of In-Flight Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 Despite Predeparture Testing
Emerging Infectious Diseases
|January 5, 2021
Summary
Despite predeparture testing, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission likely occurred mid-flight among international travelers arriving in New Zealand. This highlights potential gaps in travel-related infection control measures during the pandemic.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Genomics
Background:
- Managed isolation and quarantine (MIQ) and mandatory testing for SARS-CoV-2 were implemented for arrivals in New Zealand since March 2020.
- As of October 20, 2020, 215 SARS-CoV-2 cases were identified among 62,698 arrivals in MIQ.
- A specific flight from Dubai had 7 positive cases among 86 passengers, with some having negative predeparture tests.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate potential points of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection among international travelers.
- To assess the likelihood of in-flight transmission despite predeparture testing.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of passenger journey information.
- Review of disease progression data.
- Examination of virus genomic data from positive cases.
Main Results:
- All 7 severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) genomes were genetically identical, with one sample showing a single mutation.
- Multiple passengers had negative predeparture test results, yet tested positive upon arrival.
- The genetic similarity of the viruses suggests a common source of infection.
Conclusions:
- In-flight transmission of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a likely scenario, even with predeparture testing.
- Current travel screening protocols may not be sufficient to prevent the introduction of infectious individuals.
- Further strategies are needed to mitigate the risk of transmission during international travel.
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