Clusters of SARS-CoV-2 Infection Across Six Schools for Students with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

• DOI: 10.1007/s40121-023-00855-5
• Publication Date: 2023-09-13T18:02:03Z
• Authors: Michael Gemmell; Tyler Walsh; Michael Sherby; Adwoa Imbeah; Kelly Bono; Megan Baldenweck; Christina Gurnett; Jason G. Newland
• Keywords: 2019-20 coronavirus outbreak

Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are at increased risk for adverse outcomes from coronavirus disease 2019. Clusters of COVID-19 infections can be used to track SARS-CoV-2 transmission. This is particularly important in environments frequently individuals disabilities, such as schools. The objective this study was compare the number clusters student staff cases identified during three distinct periods (pre-Delta, Delta, Omicron) pandemic. Weekly testing occurred November 23, 2020 May 27, 2022 phases pandemic: pre-Delta, Omicron. Structured interviews were conducted positive determine if they contracted school environment, administrators responsible contact tracing determined school-based clusters. 160 55 cluster positives recorded period. 0 (0%) pre-Delta variant wave, 3 (5%) Delta 52 (95%) Omicron wave. Additionally, 23 (85%) all 12 (50%) 66 (61%) Omicron, 36 (69%) did not receive CDC-recommended dosages vaccine. led an increase cluster-based transmission, staying up date vaccination guidelines crucial limiting Prior enrollment, registered ClinicalTrials.gov on September 25, (identifier NCT04565509; titled "Supporting Health Well-being Children Intellectual Developmental Disability During Pandemic").