Use of multiplex PCR to rapidly diagnose febrile patients during a gastroenteritis outbreak among Ebola virus treatment unit workers

Multiplex PCR can provide rapid diagnosis for patients presenting with an acute undifferentiated febrile illness. Such technology is useful in deployed settings, where access to conventional microbiological diagnosis is limited. It was used in Sierra Leone to guide management of febrile healthcare workers, in whom Ebola virus disease was a possible cause. In particular, it informed appropriate antibiotic treatment while minimising the risk to clinicians of exposure to the causative organism.
Source: Journal of the Royal Army Medical Corps - Category: Journals (General) Authors: Tags: Drugs: gastrointestinal system, Infection (gastroenterology), Infectious diseases Case report Source Type: research