Afferent Turnaround Time for Larger and Smaller Indian States during COVID Lockdown

Afferent Turnaround Time during COVID Lockdown

Abstract

Timely esting and diagnosis of Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) are critical for containing viral transmission. Afferent turnaround time (ATAT) from sample collection to result receipt directly impacts testing efficacy. There is limited understanding of ATAT dynamics across Indian states during lockdowns. The main objective of the study is to analyze ATAT for smaller and larger states and Union Territories of India during the COVID-19 lockdown. Secondary data analysis of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) national COVID-19 testing database from March 25 to May 31, 2020 was done. Descriptive statistics were used to calculate mean and standard deviation ATATs for larger states, smaller states, and Union Territories across four lockdown phases. Results: Stark ATAT differences observed between states of Jharkhand, Assam and Odisha exhibited prolonged times (53.7±24.57 hrs., 50.57±24.95 hrs., 50.1±21.26 hrs.) while Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and Telangana demonstrated shortest times (21.78±14.86 hrs., 23.4±16.72 hrs., 25.95±14.04 hrs.). Smaller states and Union Territories followed similar patterns. Regional disparities highlight varied testing infrastructure and logistics. Significant ATAT variations between Indian states during lockdowns underscore the need for targeted strategies to optimize processes and allocate resources. Findings offer insights to boost pandemic preparedness.