Abstract
The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of the clinical features of the SARS-CoV-2 infection in Romanian population through a novel online survey. The survey included categorical socio-demographic and health-related variables. A total of 1830 participants were selected for statistical data processing (a response rate of 90.9%). We determined reasonable reliability of the survey section for clinical features of SARS-CoV-2 infection (Cronbach’s Alpha 0.671). Two meaningful dimensions were identified through CATPCA (Categorical Principal Component Analysis) for the survey’s items. We separated two significant clusters of items, each measuring a distinct factor: the sociodemographic characteristics linked to social distancing and the relevant clinical features of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Next, a two-step cluster analysis helped to classify the sample group taking into consideration the similarity of subjects. The clustering revealed a three-cluster solution, with significant differences between clusters and allowed the cluster detection of a group of individuals, possibly more affected by the infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Through binomial logistic regression analysis, we identified a statistically significant prediction model for the presumptive diagnostic of some relevant clinical features of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Our study validated a cost-effective model for rapid assessment of the health status of subjects, adapted to the context of SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.
Highlights
In the recent past large increases in COVID-19 cases and deaths continue to be reported worldwide, including the EU/EEA countries [1]
The purpose of the study was to conduct a cross-sectional, descriptive, epidemiological investigation by administering an online survey regarding the prevalence of the specific symptomatology of the SARS-CoV-2 virus infection among the Romanian population
We determined a reasonable reliability of the survey section for clinical features of SARS-CoV-2 infection (Cronbach’s Alpha 0.671)
Summary
In the recent past large increases in COVID-19 cases and deaths continue to be reported worldwide, including the EU/EEA countries [1]. The WHO defined the pandemy of COVID-19 as a public health emergency, with serious worldwide consequences in the short, medium, and long term [2] This pandemic already has a major impact on human communities, through the important effects on the health of individuals, through the overloading of health care services, and through the complex effects induced by the measures of the social distancing of the population. In this context, researches focused on epidemiological issues are of real use, bringing new opportunities and perspectives for public health policies. Compared to other EU countries, in Romania, the number of people infected with the virus is lower, maybe due to the low number of tests performed
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