Serial Intervals for SARS-CoV-2 Omicron and Delta Variants, Belgium, November 19-December 31, 2021

Emerg Infect Dis. 2022 Aug;28(8):1699-1702. doi: 10.3201/eid2808.220220. Epub 2022 Jun 22.

Abstract

We investigated the serial interval for SARS-CoV-2 Omicron BA.1 and Delta variants and observed a shorter serial interval for Omicron, suggesting faster transmission. Results indicate a relationship between empirical serial interval and vaccination status for both variants. Further assessment of the causes and extent of Omicron dominance over Delta is warranted.

Keywords: Belgium; COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; coronavirus disease; respiratory infections; serial interval; severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2; vaccine-preventable diseases; variants of concern; viruses; zoonoses.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Belgium / epidemiology
  • COVID-19* / epidemiology
  • COVID-19* / virology
  • Humans
  • SARS-CoV-2* / genetics
  • Vaccination / statistics & numerical data

Supplementary concepts

  • SARS-CoV-2 variants