SARS-Cov-2 testing in the United Arab Emirates: Population Attitudes and Beliefs.

Baynouna AlKetbi, L.; Nagelkerke, N.; Abdelbaqi, H.; ALBlooshi, F.; AlSaedi, M.; Almansoori, S.; AlNuaimi, R.; AlKhoori, A.; AlAryani, A.; Al Jiziri, A.; AlMestika, N.; AlShamsi, M.; Kayani, F.; Alblooshi, N.; AlKhajeh, S.; Al Hammadi, I.; AlDhahei, S.; AlFalahi, J.

The United Arab Emirates responded to the SARS COV 2 pandemic and widely implemented test and trace strategy. In this cross sectional questionnaire based study 531 subjects presenting for SARS COV 2 testing were recruited to study populations beliefs and choices regarding testing and were compared to 156 who never been tested. The community uptake in Abu Dhabi Emirate reached 90 percent average of 68 percent overall. In the great majority it was self motivated as 6 percent only had doctor referral. Those who had not taken a test were younger in age p less than 0.001 more likely performing activities such as shopping and eating out p equal 0.001 have a medical illness p less than 0.0001 and working from home p equal 0.005. The tested group reported significantly more agreement with the statement, if someone had negative result no need to stay home or wear mask. In conclusion, SARS COV 2 testing had extensive coverage and high acceptability in the UAE. Acting on concluded beliefs and attitude are key to ensure the testing coverage efficiency and public empowerment.