Impact of mass testing during an epidemic rebound of SARS-CoV-2: a modelling study using the example of France

We used a mathematical model to evaluate the impact of mass testing in the control of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Under optimistic assumptions, one round of mass testing may reduce daily infections by up to 20-30%. Consequently, very frequent testing would be required to control a quickly growing epidemic if other control measures were to be relaxed. Mass testing is most relevant when epidemic growth remains limited through a combination of interventions.

Automated summary

Mass testing is effective in controlling the epidemic growth when it is limited, but frequent testing is necessary to achieve control.