WILL THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC CHANGE ANYTHING? – A VIEW FROM THE ANGLE OF EXPERTS IN MICROBIOLOGY

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has shaken the majority of health systems around the world, pointing out
that it is necessary to invest in the modern equipment for molecular diagnostics, as well as to provide
an adequate space within microbiological laboratories for this form of diagnostics, according to the
standards that are required for such procedures. It is also necessary to increase the number of specialists
within the field of medical microbiology, especially in those laboratories where the lack of experts is at
an alarming level. Investing in the diagnostic branches of medicine (and microbiology, as well) provides
the optimal health protection: fast and correct diagnosis, the application of the adequate antimicrobial
therapy as soon as possible, resulting in greater chances for curing. Furthermore, this leads to fewer
hospital days and fewer deathly outcomes, while for infirmary patients this means a faster diagnostic
procedure and a decrease in the number of specialist examinations, which are sometimes unnecessary.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, The Section of Microbiologists of the Serbian Medical Society as well as
the Institute for Microbiology and Immunology of the Faculty of Medicine of Belgrade University, have
made themselves available to the Ministry of Health of The Republic of Serbia for the identification of
potential laboratory capacities and for conducting necessary experts training, for doctors specialists
and for laboratory technicians, as well. Although new technologies develop fast and the laboratory work
becomes automated, in theory and in practice as well, an educated expert in medical microbiology still
presents the main pillar that stands up for a precise, modern, quick and high-quality diagnosis of
infective pathogens, especially those with pandemic potential.