Dynamic profile of SARS-CoV-2 infection among hospitalized patients in Kuwait: a descriptive study

Abstract

Abstract Background The coronavirus induced disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in Wuhan (China) in December 2019 is currently spreading rapidly worldwide. This study aimed to analyze the dynamic profile of SARS-CoV-2 infection among hospitalized patients that would characterize the period of viral shedding and detection among patients. Methods Retrospectively, 103 confirmed SARS-CoV-2 patients hospitalized at Jaber hospital in Kuwait were included. Demographic and clinical characteristics of the patients were collected. Nasopharyngeal swabs were obtained at different time intervals and analyzed by Real-Time RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2 infection. Results Of 103 hospitalized patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection, the median age was 41 years, and 64% were male. The median period from admission to the positive SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR test was 19 days (IQR, 13–22). The median period from admission to active negative SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR test result was 22 days (IQR, 16–26). Older patients, patients with comorbidities, and patients with symptoms were more likely to have extended viral shedding. Conclusion For the first time, this descriptive study conducted in Kuwait on SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR test results from 103 patients positive for SARS-provided solid proof and a good understanding of the dynamic profile of SARS-CoV-2 infection among patients in Kuwait. This information will further enrich the global knowledge on the emerging SARS-CoV-2.