Factors associated with household transmission of SARS-CoV-2 omicron variant to health care workers: A retrospective cohort study

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors for household transmission of the omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2.

Background: The household infection rate has been reported to be higher for the omicron variant than for non-omicron variants of SARS-CoV-2. Determination of the risk factors for household transmission of the omicron variant is therefore important.

Design: A Retrospective Cohort Study was conducted.

Methods: When family members of health care workers (HCWs) were found to be infected with SARS-CoV-2, the HCWs had to receive two nucleic acid amplification tests for SARS-CoV-2: immediately after and 5 to 10 days after the onset of COVID-19 in the family members. Risk factors of household transmission were analysed by comparing cases (HCWs infected with SARS-CoV-2) and controls (HCWs not infected with SARS-CoV-2) using multivariable analysis.

Results: Unvaccinated status (OR: 3.97), age of index cases (≤6 years) (OR: 1.94) and staying at home with index cases (OR: 10.18) were risk factors for household transmission.

Conclusion: If there is a strong desire to avoid household infection, family members infected with SARS-CoV-2 should live separately during the period of viral shedding.