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

  1. Latifa Mohammad Baynouna AlKetbi
  2. Nico Nagelkerke
  3. Hanan Abdelbaqi
  4. Fatima ALBlooshi
  5. Mariam AlSaedi
  6. Shamsa Almansoori
  7. Ruqaya AlNuaimi
  8. Amal AlKhoori
  9. Aysha AlAryani
  10. Ahmed Al Jiziri
  11. Naji AlMestika
  12. Mariam AlShamsi
  13. Fatima Kayani
  14. Noura Alblooshi
  15. Shamma AlKhajeh
  16. Ibrahim Al Hammadi
  17. Saeed AlDhahei
  18. Jehan AlFalahi
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Abstract

Objectives

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 population’s beliefs and choices regarding testing and were compared to 156 who never been tested.

Results

The community uptake in Abu Dhabi Emirate reached 90% (average of 68% overall). In the great majority it was self-motivated as 6% only had doctor referral. Those who had not taken a test were younger in age (p < 0.001), more likely performing activities such as shopping and eating out (p = 0.001), have a medical illness (p < 0.0001), and working from home (p = 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.

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