The value of multiplex PCR in describing the microbial ecology of respiratory infections during the COVID 19 pandemic

Abstract

Respiratory infections constitute a frequent reason for consultation and hospitalization and their emergence means that the identification of pathogens is important for the implementation of appropriate treatment for effective patient care. Multiplex PCR is a diagnostic tool developed for the identification of the microbial agent and the detection of resistance mechanisms. The objective of this study was to highlight and identify by multiplex PCR the bacteria and viruses responsible for respiratory infections in patients presenting clinical signs, and in whom biological examinations did not identify germs in cause during the COVID 19 pandemic, to be able to follow the epidemiology and microbial ecology of lower respiratory infections which has undergone changes, due to hygiene rules as well as current measures and methods of controlling this pandemic.