Analysis of the first test event in Santa Catarina, Brazil, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic in July 2021: an experience report

This study aimed to describe the management and results of the test event for evaluating relaxation of social distancing measures in Santa Catarina, Brazil. This is an experience report that described results of the test event carried out in July 2021 and for which the participants underwent real-time polymerase chain reaction diagnostic testing 72-48 hours before the event and had follow-up for 15 days afterwards. The outcomes analyzed were SARS-CoV-2 infection up to 14 days after the event and presence of symptoms. Among 313 participants, the mean age was 45.1 years and 54.3% were female. During follow-up, 7.7% (24) of the contacted participants reported symptoms compatible with infection, but of the 240 who attended post-event testing, none of the results detected the presence of the virus. No post-event COVID-19 cases were reported. We suggest that other test events be carried out to evaluate the recommendations indicated.