Participants' experience in using a point of Care Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) for SARS-CoV-2

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology
• Diagnostic Testing

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the critical need for rapid and accessible diagnostic tools.
• Asymptomatic individuals represent a significant source of SARS-CoV-2 transmission.
• Point-of-care Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) offer a faster, less invasive alternative to PCR testing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and acceptance of point-of-care RAT for SARS-CoV-2 screening.
• To assess the role of RAT in preventing COVID-19 transmission within a community setting.
• To understand the experiences of asymptomatic individuals undergoing RAT.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was conducted among asymptomatic students and staff living in congregate housing at the University of British Columbia.
• The BD Veritor testing kit was used for bilateral nasal specimen testing.
• Participants completed a survey on their experiences with RAT.

Main Results:

• A 37% response rate was achieved with 223 participants completing the survey.
• Over 97% of participants found RAT acceptable and would take another test.
• More than two-thirds reported RAT reduced anxiety and provided peace of mind.

Conclusions:

• Rapid Antigen Testing (RAT) is well-accepted by asymptomatic individuals in congregate settings.
• RAT can facilitate early detection of SARS-CoV-2 infections.
• The use of RAT can alleviate anxiety associated with potential COVID-19 exposure.