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COVID-19 self-testing in Nigeria: Stakeholders’ opinions and perspectives on its value for case detection

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  • Veronica A Undelikwo
  • Sonjelle Shilton
  • Morenike Oluwatoyin Folayan
  • Oluwatoyin Alaba
  • Elena Ivanova Reipold
  • Guillermo Z Martínez-Pérez

Abstract

Background: COVID-19 testing coverage is limited in Nigeria. Access to rapid SARS-CoV-2 antigen-detection self-testing kits may help improve the detection of asymptomatic and mildly symptomatic cases and increase the country’s low rate of SARS-CoV-2 testing. Before implementing self-testing in Nigeria, assessing the population’s perceptions regarding this approach is imperative. In mid-2021, an exploratory cross-sectional qualitative research was conducted to investigate stakeholders’ values and preferences for SARS-CoV-2 self-testing in Nigeria. Methods: In-person and online semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions with healthcare workers, representatives of civil society, and potential implementors of self-testing delivery programs were used to explore values and perceptions around access to conventional provider-initiated COVID-19 testing. Topics included the public’s values in relation to SARS-CoV-2 self-testing, the safe and effective use of SARS-CoV-2 self-testing, and likely actions upon receiving a positive SARS-CoV-2 self-test result. A thematic analysis approach was applied. Results: The 58 informants (29 female) reported that Nigeria has limited availability of conventional provider-delivered SARS-CoV-2 testing. While just a few informants were familiar with SARS-CoV-2 self-testing, they generally supported using self-testing as an approach that they felt could assist with early case detection and improve access to testing. Concerns relating to the use of self-testing mainly related to the ability of low-literate individuals to use and interpret the self-tests, the affordability of self-tests, equity of access, and the availability of healthcare system support for those who self-test positive. Conclusion: Although the Nigerian public perceive multiple benefits associated with access to SARS-CoV-2 self-testing, the perceived inefficiency of the national health service delivery system may limit the access of users of the kits to psychosocial and clinical support. Nevertheless, in Nigeria, where COVID-19 vaccine coverage is low and the risk of further waves of COVID-19 is high, self-testing may assist in the prompt detection of cases and contribute to halting the spread of the virus.

Suggested Citation

  • Veronica A Undelikwo & Sonjelle Shilton & Morenike Oluwatoyin Folayan & Oluwatoyin Alaba & Elena Ivanova Reipold & Guillermo Z Martínez-Pérez, 2023. "COVID-19 self-testing in Nigeria: Stakeholders’ opinions and perspectives on its value for case detection," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 18(4), pages 1-16, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:plo:pone00:0282570
    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0282570
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    1. Aima A Ahonkhai & Susan Regan & Ifeoma Idigbe & Olayemi Adeniyi & Muktar H Aliyu & Prosper Okonkwo & Juliet Adeola & Elena Losina & Zaidat Musa & Oliver Ezechi & Kenneth A Freedberg, 2020. "The impact of user fees on uptake of HIV services and adherence to HIV treatment: Findings from a large HIV program in Nigeria," PLOS ONE, Public Library of Science, vol. 15(10), pages 1-14, October.
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