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  • Individuals suspected of having PTB and should produce two sputum specimens for microscopic examination (two samples identify about 95% of the smear-positive cases) (Ref.)

  • WHO also allows for two so called ‘frontloaded’ sputum specimens to be collected during the same visit which may save the patient transportation costs and time. If possible, samples should be collected several hours apart.

  • One quality sample can be used for Xpert MTB/RIF testing

  • Collect specimens as described here and send to the laboratory. You may send the person directly to the laboratory to produce the sample.
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