Infection risk factor measurement based on spatial and temporal distribution of COVID-19 nucleic acid test sites: an example from Shenzhen

Abstract

COVID-19 has profoundly impacted global daily life, emphasizing the need for effective virus suppression strategies. In response, China has established numerous nucleic acid testing sites to facilitate rapid testing and curb outbreaks. However, these sites often experience congestion, increasing transmission risks and reducing testing efficiency. This study focuses on the spatial–temporal analysis of testing site distribution and associated infection risks in Shenzhen, China. Data from all Shenzhen testing sites were analyzed for the week of October 24–30, 2022, noting the percentage of busy hours per site and incorporating a population size factor by district to assess regional infection risks. Findings indicate three daily peak testing times—primarily in the evening—with the highest risk of transmission in Longgang District, followed by Yantian and Luohu, and the lowest in Futian. The risk coefficient varied from 0.040 to 0.349, with most areas showing stable risk levels between 0.06 and 0.20. This research underlines the necessity for policymakers to alleviate congestion at testing sites and suggests increasing site availability in Longgang District to mitigate COVID-19 spread, offering methodological guidance for managing infection risks in other major Chinese cities.