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Trends in COVID-19 Testing and Positivity Rates from a Mobile Testing Program in the Phoenix Metropolitan Area
Christine S M Lau1, Jared Johns2, Stephanie Merlene2
1Vincere Cancer Center, 7469 E. Monte Cristo Avenue, Scottsdale, AZ, 85260, USA. drlau@vincerecancer.com.
Journal of Community Health
|June 11, 2021
Summary
COVID-19 positivity rates in Phoenix declined significantly from December 2020 to April 2021. This decrease in coronavirus cases correlates with holiday season changes and increased COVID-19 vaccinations.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic remains a significant global health crisis.
- Arizona experienced a high incidence of COVID-19 cases.
- Understanding disease trends is vital for assessing public health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze COVID-19 testing and positivity rate trends.
- To examine data from a mobile testing program in Phoenix, Arizona.
- To evaluate trends between December 2020 and April 2021.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of mobile testing data.
- Inclusion of 32,234 COVID-19 tests performed in the Phoenix metropolitan area.
- Calculation of overall and monthly positivity rates.
Main Results:
- An overall COVID-19 positivity rate of 11.3% (3654/32,234) was observed.
- Positivity rates were highest in December (12.9%) and January (12.7%).
- Rates significantly decreased in February (7.5%), March (4.9%), and April (6.7%).
Conclusions:
- The peak in COVID-19 cases likely resulted from holiday gatherings.
- Declining trends may be linked to reduced gatherings and increased vaccination uptake.
- Sustained public health measures, including vaccination, are essential for controlling COVID-19 transmission.
