Presymptomatic Transmission of SARS-CoV-2-Singapore, January 23-March 16, 2020

What is already known about this topic? Preliminary evidence indicates the occurrence of presymptomatic transmission of SARS-CoV-2, based on reports of individual cases in China. What is added by this report? Investigation of all 243 cases of COVID-19 reported in Singapore during January 23-March 16 identified seven clusters of cases in which presymptomatic transmission is the most likely explanation for the occurrence of secondary cases. What are the implications for public health practice? The possibility of presymptomatic transmission increases the challenges of containment measures. Public health officials conducting contact tracing should strongly consider including a period before symptom onset to account for the possibility of presymptomatic transmission. The potential for presymptomatic transmission underscores the importance of social distancing, including the avoidance of congregate settings, to reduce COVID-19 spread.