Use of Rapid Antigen Testing for SARS-CoV-2 in Remote Communities — Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta Region, Alaska, September 15, 2020–March 1, 2021

Abstract

What is already known about this topic? Until the widespread availability of rapid point-of-care COVID-19 testing, one of the primary challenges in rural Alaska was slow turnaround times for SARS-CoV-2 laboratory-based nucleic acid amplification test results. What is added by this report? Introduction of rapid, point-of-care antigen testing in Alaska's remote Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta region was followed by a more than threefold reduction in daily SARS-CoV-2 case rates during approximately 1 month before the introduction of COVID-19 vaccination. What are the implications for public health practice? Rapid point-of-care antigen testing shortens the turn-around time and might be a valuable tool in reducing transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in rural communities by facilitating rapid isolation and quarantine.