Experience of acute respiratory infections active screening in the COVID-19 pandemic context

ABSTRACT

Background: The search for cases as a continuous process constitutes a fundamental premise of active screening. This is a fundamental pillar for containing contagion in times of pandemic, which is why it is of interest to analyze its development and impact on communities. Objective: to describe the experiences of the active screening of acute respiratory infections in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: a descriptive study was carried out, which included the population corresponding to the Community Polyclinic Teaching Area 1 Jose Luis Chaviano (22 038 inhabitants), Cienfuegos province, during March and April 2020 (45 days). Results: a total of 19,103 people were surveyed, for 86.2% of the existing population in the area. 151 had respiratory symptoms (0.7%). According to the epidemiology associated with these infections, 33 people (21.8%) were detected. It was possible to confirm 100% of the cases detected in the active investigation, together with the controls of the basic health team of the Family Medical Office. Conclusion: active screening contributes favorably to early intervention against COVID-19.