Large scale use of SARS-CoV-2 antigen-based detection tests: a three-month experience in Guatemala, June-August 2020
Objectives. To measure protocol adherence and antigen-based detection tests (AgDT) negative predictive value after 3 months of massive use as a diagnostic tool for COVID-19 in Guatemala. Methods. The study period included nasopharyngeal swabs taken between March 12 and August 31, 2020, which results...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , |
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| Format: | Book |
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Pan American Health Organization,
2023-12-01T00:00:00Z.
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| Summary: | Objectives. To measure protocol adherence and antigen-based detection tests (AgDT) negative predictive value after 3 months of massive use as a diagnostic tool for COVID-19 in Guatemala. Methods. The study period included nasopharyngeal swabs taken between March 12 and August 31, 2020, which results were entered in the national COVID-19 information system. Proportional increase in testing between one month before and one month after the introduction of AgDT (May 9-June 8 vs. June 9-July 8) was measured. Results. After AgDT introduction, there was a 139% increase in SARS-CoV-2 testing. Between June 9 and August 31, 7.8% of 110 657 AgDT-negative patients had follow-up RT-PCR testing. Of them, 30% were RT-PCR positive. Conclusions. While introducing AgDT improved access to diagnostics, ensuring the availability of timely RT-PCR capacities to confirm diagnosis is also key. |
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| Item Description: | 1020-4989 1680-5348 10.26633/RPSP.2020.174 |