Objective:

To discuss the challenges faced in ramping up diagnostic testing for SARS-CoV-2 in the USA.

Approach:

• Testing Challenges: The initial CDC test kit had a faulty reagent, leading to invalid results.
• Regulatory Changes: Restrictions on hospitals and academic labs developing their own test kits were lifted on February 29.
• Current Testing Landscape: Testing has shifted from CDC and state labs to hospitals and commercial companies.

Key Findings:

• As of March 18, 37,824 tests had been conducted in the USA.
• The USA is lagging behind other countries in testing capacity.
• New drive-through test centers and quicker processing are being implemented to improve testing rates.

Interpretation:

Limitations:

• The data is only current as of March 18 and may not reflect ongoing changes.
• The effectiveness of new testing strategies has not been evaluated.

Conclusion:

Sources:

• CDC Test Kit Issues
• Testing Statistics