NBA Conducts Extensive COVID-19 Surveillance Among Players and Staff
The National Basketball Association (NBA) has carried out comprehensive surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 infection among players, staff, and affiliates over a two-year period, between March 11, 2020, and July 28, 2022. This crucial initiative aimed to track the presence and spread of the virus within the basketball community.
The surveillance efforts included regular testing using nucleic acid amplification tests and clinical assessments. The tests utilized samples collected from the anterior nares and oropharyngeal swabs, which were then analyzed using RT-qPCR methods to assess viral concentration. To ensure accurate results, positive controls were used and the primer and probe sequences were closely monitored.
As part of the study, participant age and vaccination status were documented. This valuable information allowed researchers to analyze the impact of age and vaccination on infection rates and viral dynamics.
Whole-genome sequencing was used to assign viral lineages when feasible, providing a comprehensive understanding of the different variants circulating within the NBA community. This data played a crucial role in monitoring the prevalence of specific variants and their potential impact on the health of athletes and staff.
The study analyzed a substantial longitudinal dataset, consisting of 424,401 SARS-CoV-2 tests from 3021 individuals. This extensive sampling allowed researchers to draw meaningful conclusions about viral kinetics and infection patterns among NBA players and staff.
Vaccination and booster status were determined at the time of the first positive test for each infection. This information gave researchers insight into the effectiveness of vaccination in preventing severe illness and the potential need for booster shots.
To perform genome sequencing, an amplicon-based library preparation strategy was utilized, enabling researchers to analyze the genetic makeup of the virus and identify any specific mutations or variations.
Using a hierarchical piecewise linear model, the research team characterized the viral kinetics of well-documented infections. This model captured essential parameters such as proliferation time, peak viral concentration, and viral clearance time during acute infections. By deriving estimates from these parameters, researchers gained a deeper understanding of the virus’s behavior among NBA athletes and staff.
Additionally, the study assessed differences in viral kinetic parameters across infection categories, shedding light on the varying severity and transmission rates of different variants. Moreover, correlations between viral kinetic parameters of first and second infections were examined at the individual level, providing insights into reinfection and potential immunity against future strains.
It is important to note that this research was conducted following strict ethical guidelines. The study was approved by the Yale Institutional Review Board, and all participants provided informed consent.
The NBA’s comprehensive surveillance efforts have been invaluable in understanding the impact and spread of SARS-CoV-2 within the basketball community. This data will aid in developing targeted prevention and mitigation strategies to ensure the health and safety of players, staff, and affiliates in the future.
