Rice University survey shows most Houstonians with coronavirus symptoms not tested

Thursday, May 7, 2020
Survey shows most Houstonians with virus symptoms not tested
Are you surprised to hear less than 15% of respondents with COVID-19 symptoms have been tested?

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- How is COVID-19 affecting you? A major new study from Rice University is shedding some light on the impact in the Houston area, and you still have a chance to give feedback.

Initial results of the survey indicate a big gap in numbers between those being tested and those who are sick.

Only 10.5% of respondents who had a fever or felt feverish have been tested, and only 13.4% of those with shortness of breath have been tested.

And then there's the financial fallout, 40% of households have lost income, and between 7% and 10% report difficulty paying rent or other bills.

The impact appears to be much more severe among African American and Hispanic households.

Stress is also a major issue, with 23% of respondents saying they are experiencing moderate to severe anxiety. Health care workers and first responders represent 22% of that group.

You can participate in Rice University's COVID-19 registry online at registry.rice.edu/covid19.

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