Transmission Dynamics of COVID-19 in a Rural Setting of the Democratic Republic of the Congo

A fixed cohort of adults in rural Kimpese will be followed up every two months since they are assumed to be at above average risk of contracting COVID-19. Every two months these individuals will be interviewed with a focus on COVID-19 related symptoms and possible exposure to the disease and have their temperature recorded. A social mixing survey will also be carried out to assess human contact behaviour. The data generated will help inform mathematical modelling that can predict which proportion of the population per age group is likely to get infected once COVID-19 is introduced in this rural population, and the epidemic size if no intervention, as well as when targeted interventions are introduced. During the outbreak, physical distancing measures could be implemented. The monitoring of social contacts, again using a social-mixing survey, will contribute to the understanding of the impact of such measures in a rural context on transmission of SARS-CoV-2. The results from the seroprevalence over time, will be used to refine and validate the predictions from the modelling results, (re)calibrate the model where needed, and test hypotheses on transmission-dynamics of COVID-19. In case of an established epidemic of Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in the Health Zone of Kimpese, the sero-surveillance will be extended from an assumed high risk cohort to a representative sample of the overall population. Moreover, support to the COVID-19 control measures will be provided by the study team. The national guidelines recommend household transmission investigation for the first 100 confirmed laboratory cases. During the household visit, information on symptoms and one serum sample will be requested of all household members of the index case. If household members are present with symptoms and fever, the COVID-19 outbreak team of Kimpese will provide diagnostic testing and medical care.