As per new data, nearly one-third of people infected with SARS-CoV-2 could still be infectious after a quarantine for 5 days. 

PCR tests can identify the virus particles but cannot differentiate between infectious and inactive particles. Therefore, for a new study, researchers used a new test to assess samples obtained between March and November 2020. In the sequential samples from 176 people with positive PCR test results, investigators checked for genetic material produced by the virus when it actively replicates and is still transmissible. It was noted that at five days, 30% of people still had clinically relevant levels of potentially active virus. The researchers further stated that after a 10-day quarantine, 1 in 10 people could still be infectious. The findings are reported in the International Journal of Infectious Diseases. 

Some individuals exhibited these levels for up to 68 days, noted researchers. The study was conducted before the Delta and Omicron variants came into circulation… (Reuters, January 15, 2022)