Analyzing factors affecting positivity in drive-through COVID-19 testing: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Abstract Background Demand for COVID-19 testing prompted the implementation of drive-through testing systems. However, limited research has examined factors influencing testing positivity in this setting. Methods From October 2020 to March 2023, a total of 1,341 patients, along with their clinical information, were referred from local clinics to the Sasebo City COVID-19 drive-through PCR center for testing. Association between clinical information or factors related to the drive-through center and testing results was analyzed by Fisher’s exact test and logistic regression models. Results Individuals testing positive exhibited higher frequencies of upper respiratory symptoms; cough (OR 1.5 (95% CI 1.2–1.8), p < 0.001, q = 0.005), sore throat (OR 2.4 (95% CI 1.9-3.0), p < 0.001, q < 0.001), runny nose (OR 1.4 (95% CI 1.1–1.8), p = 0.002, q = 0.009), and systemic symptoms; fever (OR 1.5 (95% CI 1.1-2.0), p = 0.006, q = 0.02), headache (OR 1.9 (95% CI 1.4–2.5), p < 0.001, q < 0.001), and joint pain (OR 2.7 (95% CI 1.8–4.1), p < 0.001, q < 0.001). Conversely, gastrointestinal symptoms; diarrhea (OR 0.2 (95% CI 0.1–0.4), p < 0.001, q < 0.001) and nausea (OR 0.3 (95% CI 0.1–0.6), p < 0.001, q < 0.001) were less prevalent among positives. During omicron strain predominant period, higher testing positivity rate (OR 20 (95% CI 13–31), p < 0.001) and shorter period from symptom onset to testing (3.2 vs. 6.0 days, p < 0.001) were observed compared to pre-omicron period. Besides symptoms, contact history with infected persons at home (OR 4.5 (95% CI 3.1–6.5), p < 0.001, q < 0.001) and in office or school (OR 2.9 (95% CI 2.1–4.1), p < 0.001, q < 0.001), as well as the number of sample collection experiences by collectors (B 7.2 (95% CI 2.8–12), p = 0.002) were also associated with testing results. Conclusions These findings underscore the importance of factors related to drive-through centers, especially contact history interviews and sample collection skills, for achieving higher rates of COVID-19 testing positivity. They also contribute to enhanced preparedness for next infectious disease pandemics.