We compared the RT–PCR cycle threshold (Ct) values of the first positive nasopharyngeal swabs for all 37 asymptomatic individuals and 37 symptomatic patients. The initial Ct values for 37 asymptomatic individuals and 37 symptomatic patients appeared similar (ORF1b 32.8 (IQR, 30.9–35.8) versus 31.7 (IQR, 30.3–35.1), P = 0.336; N 32.6 (IQR, 29.5–34.6) versus 33.5 (IQR, 31.3–37.2), P = 0.126).

Asymptomatic Viral Shedding Mean: 19 d (IQR, 15–26 d) Range: 6 d - 45 d Median: 14 d (IQR, 9–22 d)

The asymptomatic group had a significantly longer duration of viral shedding than the symptomatic group (log-rank P = 0.028).