Repeat positive SARS-CoV-2 RNA testing in nursing home residents during the initial 9 months of the COVID-19 pandemic: an observational retrospective analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Nursing homes are high-risk COVID-19 settings with residents who are typically older and have multiple comorbidities. SARS-CoV-2 testing occurs frequently in nursing homes, with public health guidance suggesting that repeat testing is generally not warranted in the 90 days following initial positive test results. Interpretation of repeat positive tests beyond 90 days is challenging and the consequences of decisions following these tests are significant.

Methods

We utilized a surveillance system for COVID-19 to identify Connecticut nursing home residents who tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 by RNA-based testing ≥ 90 days after initial positive results. We analyzed statewide nursing home testing data over a 9-month period, from the first Connecticut nursing home case

SUBMITTER: Armstrong JN 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8380052 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature