Prevalence of COVID 19 Positive Cases Presenting to a Psychiatric Emergency Room

Abstract

To explore the prevalence of SARS-CoV2 infection in the psychiatric emergency room setting. A Cross-sectional retrospective chart review was used to determine the point-prevalence of SARS-CoV2 infection and the characteristics of those infected. Of the patients tested for SARS-CoV2, 23/1057 (2.2%) were positive. Most of these patients were homeless (living on the street) or came from congregate living settings. The high percentage of SARS-CoV2 positive psychiatric patients coming from congregate living settings stresses the importance of asymptomatic screening in this vulnerable population.