AUTHOR=Mullane Marianne J. , Thomas Hannah M. , Epstein Melanie , Mandzufas Joelie , Mullan Narelle , Whelan Alexandra , Lombardi Karen , Barrow Tina , Ang Sherlynn , Leahy Adele , Cameron Ewan , Lester Leanne , Cooper Matt , Stevenson Paul , Hartman Mitch , McKenzie Anne , Mitrou Francis , Zubrick Stephen R. , Coffin Juli , Cross Donna , Bowen Asha C. , Gething Peter 

TITLE=DETECT Schools Study Protocol: A Prospective Observational Cohort Surveillance Study Investigating the Impact of COVID-19 in Western Australian Schools

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Public Health

VOLUME=9

YEAR=2021

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2021.636921

DOI=10.3389/fpubh.2021.636921

ISSN=2296-2565

ABSTRACT=<p><bold>Introduction:</bold> Amidst the evolving COVID-19 pandemic, understanding the transmission dynamics of the SARS-CoV-2 virus is key to providing peace of mind for the community and informing policy-making decisions. While available data suggest that school-aged children are not significant spreaders of SARS-CoV-2, the possibility of transmission in schools remains an ongoing concern, especially among an aging teaching workforce. Even in low-prevalence settings, communities must balance the potential risk of transmission with the need for students' ongoing education. Through the roll out of high-throughput school-based SARS-CoV-2 testing, enhanced follow-up for individuals exposed to COVID-19 and wellbeing surveys, this study investigates the dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 transmission and the current psychosocial wellbeing impacts of the pandemic in school communities.</p><p><bold>Methods:</bold> The DETECT Schools Study is a prospective observational cohort surveillance study in 79 schools across Western Australia (WA), Australia. To investigate the incidence, transmission and impact of SARS-CoV-2 in schools, the study comprises three “modules”: Module 1) Spot-testing in schools to screen for asymptomatic SARS-CoV-2; Module 2) Enhanced surveillance of close contacts following the identification of any COVID-19 case to determine the secondary attack rate of SARS-CoV-2 in a school setting; and Module 3) Survey monitoring of school staff, students and their parents to assess psycho-social wellbeing following the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in WA.</p><p><bold>Clinical Trial Registration:</bold> Trial registration number: ACTRN12620000922976</p>