Objective: COVID-19 is a disease that, as of 2020, has affected the whole world. Its spread being rapid, early detection would contribute to its control. This study aims to determine the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics associated with this detection fast in Kinshasa. Material and methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive study with an analytical aim is carried out on 713 people suspected of COVID-19 upon their admission to the Covid Treatment Center of the University Clinics of Kinshasa (CTC / CUK) between 2020 and 2021 through the exploitation of the database registering these patients. Data are analyzed using jamovi software version 2.3.18. Frequencies, Fisher's Exact test then logistic regression with α = 0.05 are used. Results: In total, we recorded 713 cases, 459 or 64.4% tested positive at the first screening. The median age is 59.0 years. The sex ratio is 1.7 in favor of men. The following characteristics are associated with early detection of COVID-19: advanced age (OR = 2.9 *1.03 – 8.29+); arterial hypertension (OR = 1.7 *1.15 – 2.52]); diabetes mellitus (OR = 3.66 [1.92 – 6.98]); body aches (OR = 0.41 [0.20 – 0.83]) as well as signs of respiratory distress (OR = 2.4 [1.44 – 3.87]). Conclusion: This study shows that elderly patients, those with a history of hypertension, diabetes and signs of respiratory distress tested positive at the first screening upon arrival at the CTC/CUK, unlike those with body aches. These cases would therefore require special attention from all staff of the COVID-19 response team for appropriate care.