Early molecular detection of SARS-CoV-2 in sputum of vulnerable groups suspected of pulmonary tuberculosis

The World Health Organization (WHO) has decreed the COVID-19 pandemic since March 2020, after the occurrence of countless cases worldwide, caused by SARS-CoV-2. When present, the symptoms of COVID-19 can range from a simple cold to a flu-like syndrome or severe pneumonia. The risk factors and comorbidities associated with COVID-19 still need to be clarified, but it is known that the impact of the pandemic will affect the poorest populations with economic damage to a great extent, impacting global health. The development of severe forms of COVID-19 is associated with some risk factors, including infection by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. For the diagnosis of COVID-19, nasopharyngeal secretion samples are normally used, however there are reports of research in different biological samples, such as sputum, feces and urine paired with nasopharyngeal samples. With the present study, the authors hope to obtain data to evaluate the use of sputum samples in the detection of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in a population of individuals deprived of their liberty, with respiratory symptoms for COVID-19 and / or tuberculosis (TB). With the evaluation of the data obtained in the research, information on the feasibility of using the Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2 methodology can be extracted, which allows reducing the diagnostic time of COVID-19. The possibility of using the methodology to be linked to the Rapid Molecular Test Network for TB will be evaluated, as an aid in the diagnosis of COVID-19 in different capitals and municipalities in the country, which may represent an increase in the availability of laboratory diagnosis and early detection of the virus in symptomatic and contact individuals. Consequently contribute to the early adoption of isolation measures and reduction of new infections. (AU)