Rapid implementation of real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (real-time RT-PCR) assay for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in a Moroccan hospital

Abstract

Background: The main challenge faced in the African countries was to implement efficient molecular diagnostic facilities and start Covid-19 diagnosis as fast as possible to handle the rapid and unpredictable rise of cases.

Materials, Methods and Results: We describe our experience in implementing a molecular biology unit at Sheikh Zaïd International University Hospital in Rabat, with a delay as short as one week, and starting real-time RT-PCR assay for the detection of SARS-Cov-2 infection, since the outbreak widened in Morocco in mid-March, 2020.

Conclusion: The challenges encountered in the first period of Covid-19 pandemic are still present. This work aims to give an example of a rapid and adaptive response in order to maintain our diagnosis ability for Covid-19 and for other pathogens.