CoLab-score and viability PCR for SARS-CoV-2: routine blood test algorithm proven by elimination of viable SARS-CoV-2 to identify patients in order to facilitate discharge and/or de-isolation

Long-term occupancy of isolation rooms by COVID-19 patients leads to further pressure on regular non-COVID care. In addition, treating and caring for COVID-19 patients in isolation is associated with physical and psychological burden for the patient and healthcare staff. An algorithm has been developed that can calculate the so-called CoLab score based on the patient's age and about 10 standard blood values ​​that are measured daily in the ICU. The researchers of this study want to investigate whether the CoLab score can be used to release COVID-19 patients from isolation earlier and safely. Research design The CoLab score will be compared with the current standard PCR test and a recently developed PCR test (viability PCR) that can exclude the presence of infectious virus particles. In this way, the researchers can demonstrate that a patient with a normalized CoLab score is no longer contagious and can be safely removed from isolation.