Phylogenetic analysis of SARS-CoV-2 in Boston highlights the impact of superspreading events

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Abstract
Phylogenetics of superspreading: One important characteristic of coronavirus epidemiology is the occurrence of superspreading events. These are marked by a disproportionate number of cases originating from often-times asymptomatic individuals. Using a rich sequence dataset from the early stages of the Boston outbreak, Lemieuxet al.identified superspreading events in specific settings and analyzed them phylogenetically (see the Perspective by Alizon). Using ancestral trait inference, the authors identified several importation events, further investigated the context and contribution of particular superspreading events to the establishment of local and wider SARS-CoV-2 transmission, and used viral phylogenies to describe sustained transmission.Science, this issue p.eabe3261; see also p.574
Funding Information
  • NIH Office of the Director (U19AI110818)