Work

Use of COVID-19 Detection Tests in the Mexican Population from 2020-2022: Frequency and Distribution

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: OBJECTIVE: Analyze the frequency and distribution of COVID-19 diagnostic testing (RT-PCR and Ag-RDT) in Mexico during 2020-2022, and identify the sociodemographic and regional factors associated with their use. METHODS: Ecological and cross-sectional study using secondary data from the National Epidemiological Surveillance System for Respiratory Diseases (SISVER). Approximately 15 million tests performed in public and private institutions between June 2020 and April 2022 were analyzed at individual and municipal levels to describe distribution by sex, age, social security coverage, and regional marginalization. RESULTS: Ag-RDT was the most frequently used test nationwide, with testing concentrated in Mexico City and other economically developed regions, while marginalized and predominantly indigenous areas showed the lowest testing rates. CONCLUSION: Significant inequalities were found in access to COVID-19 testing in Mexico, highlighting the influence of socioeconomic and territorial disparities and the need for equity-oriented public health and nursing strategies.

Source: Revista Brasileira de Enfermagem

DOI: 10.1590/0034-7167-2025-0301

Authors: Irene Parada-Toro, Hortensia Reyes-Morales, Juan Espiniza-Montero, Sergio Flores- Hernández, Eric Monterrubio-Flores

Institution: Instituto Nacional de Salud Pública

Language: English

Topic: SARS-CoV-2 detection and testing

Subfield: Infectious Diseases

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $247