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Analysis of a large SARS-CoV-2 (Alpha) outbreak in a Catalan prison using conventional and genomic epidemiology.

Antoni E BordoyXavier VallèsJuan Fernández-NágerMontserrat Sánchez-RoigJuan Fernández-RecioVerónica SaludesMarc Noguera-JulianIgnacio BlancoElisa Martrónull null
Published in: The Journal of infectious diseases (2024)
Enforcing strict protocols that prevent transmission of airborne infections in prisons is challenging. We examine a large SARS-CoV-2 outbreak in a Catalan penitentiary center from February-March 2021, prior to vaccination deployment. The aim was to describe the evolution of the outbreak using classical and genomic epidemiology and the containment strategy applied. The outbreak was initially detected in one module but spread to four, infecting 7 staff members and 140 incarcerated individuals, 6 of whom were hospitalized (4.4%). Genomic analysis confirmed a single origin (B.1.1.7). Contact tracing identified transmission vectors between modules and prevented further viral spread. In future similar scenarios, the control strategy described here may help limiting transmission of airborne infections in correctional settings.
Keyphrases
  • sars cov
  • particulate matter
  • respiratory syndrome coronavirus
  • risk factors
  • copy number
  • climate change
  • coronavirus disease
  • genome wide
  • network analysis