By itself, the test-and-trace approach can reduce the virus’ reproduction rate, or R number, by 26 percent, they reported in The Lancet Infectious Diseases, using mathematical models to examine data from previously published studies. The reproduction rate measures the number of people in a population, on average, infected by each person carrying the virus. Anything above “1” means the disease is continuing to expand; below that threshold, it will eventually peter out. “Our results show that test and trace can help reduce the R number but needs to be carried out effectively and quickly to do so,” he said in a statement. “Test and trace alone won’t be enough to control transmission in most communities, and other measures alongside will be needed to bring the R number below 1,” said Grassly.

Source: Manila Times August 19, 2020 16:16 UTC