Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on laboratory diagnosis of tuberculosis in southern Brazil

• DOI: 10.17058/reci.v12i2.17191
• Publication Date: 2022-12-27T18:36:54Z
• Authors: Mariana Quaresma ...; Juliana Lemos Dal...; Ana Bárbara Schol...; Felipe Furtado Go...; Denise Silva Brião; Carolina Almeida ...; Andrea Von Groll; Pedro Eduardo Alm...; Ivy Bastos Ramis
• Keywords: Pandemic; Tuberculosis control; Tertiary care; Tuberculosis diagnosis

Background and objectives: to understand the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis in different settings is essential guide establishment appropriate TB control strategies. This study aimed assess influence laboratory patients tested diagnosed for TB. Methods: a data survey was carried out database laboratories that perform public health system Rio Grande city (Rio do Sul, Brazil). Results: there decrease 1,368 735 (reduction 46.3%) number diagnostic services 2019 2020, respectively, 197 119 39.6%) new cases diagnosed. In contrast, positivity rate 14.4% 16.2% 2020. Moreover, it observed performs service Primary Health Care most affected, when compared Tertiary Care. Conclusion: as consequence measures spread SARS-CoV-2, reduction testing detection cases, especially Care, where with less need hospitalization are received.