SARS-CoV-2 viral shedding and susceptibility: perspectives on gender and asymptomatic patients

• Published in: Journal of infection in developing countries Vol. 16; no. 5; pp. 768 - 777
• Main Authors: Engku Abd Rahman, Engku Nur Syafirah, Al-Fendi, Ali Mr Murad, Irekeola, Ahmad Adebayo, Musa, Nurfadhlina, Furusawa, Go, Chan, Yean Yean
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Italy Journal of Infection in Developing Countries 30.05.2022
• Subjects: Asymptomatic; Coronaviruses; COVID-19; Gender; Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2; COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; symptomatic; asymptomatic; viral shedding
• ISSN: 1972-2680; 2036-6590; 1972-2680
• DOI: 10.3855/jidc.14721

Despite efforts to contain and manage the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak which was declared a public health emergency of international concern in January 2020 by the World Health Organization (WHO), the COVID-19 pandemic still remains a major global challenge. Patients who display the classical symptoms of the infection are easily identified, tested, isolated and monitored. However, many cases of infected asymptomatic patients have been documented. These patients are not easily identified even though many evidences suggest that they can spread the virus to others. How and why these COVID-19 asymptomatic presentations occur remain unclear. The many theories and views are conjectural, and supporting evidences are still needed. In this review, we described the trend in SARS-CoV-2 viral shedding and susceptibility, providing perspectives on gender differences and asymptomatic patients. We further discussed how genetics, gender, viral inoculum, and pre-existing immunity may influence asymptomatic presentations in COVID-19 infections. We hope that this article improves our understanding of asymptomatic SAR-CoV-2 infection and it sheds light on some salient areas that should be considered as the search for a potent vaccine continues.