Mobile COVID-19 testing program in Phoenix: A retrospective observational cohort study of results, trends, and positivity rates

Abstract

Over 3 years since the onset of the coronavirus (COVID-19), the COVID-19 pandemic remains a global health challenge. At the same time, review of the response to the current pandemic is required for planning for future pandemics and global health crises. Approximately 2.5 million cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Arizona, a state with a 7.2 million population. Analyzing trends in COVID-19 case and positivity rates is crucial in planning to ensure public health safety for both this and future pandemics. This current observational study analyzes the trends in COVID-19 testing and positivity rates in the Phoenix metropolitan area, from data collected from a mobile testing program between December 2020 and April 2022. A total of 72,827 COVID-19 tests were performed, with a total of 8666 positive cases, yielding an overall positivity rate of 11.9%. Case counts and positivity rates increased during the fall and winter months, peaking in January (January 2021: 13.96% and January 2022: 24.84%). These cyclical trends cyclical can help with planning and mitigation. Continued public health awareness, including vaccinations and testing, is required in controlling COVID-19 transmission.