MOLECULAR DIAGNOSTICS OF COVID-19 IN SELECTION REGIONS IN NORTH MACEDONIA

The purpose of this study was to assess the incidence and dynamics of positive cases with SARS-CoV-2 during the period from 01.07.2021 to 31.06.2022 at the level of some sampling points in North Macedonia. The laboratory analyses were carried out at the Institute of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine in Skopje. In total, 33,095 samples were processed from patients with acute respiratory symptoms, taken from the points in Skopje (Čair and Čento), as well as from the Public Health Centers in Ohrid-Debar, Strumica, and Štip-Probištip. RNA extraction was performed with the abGenix kit, while detection of the SARS-CoV-2 virus was performed with the RT-PCR method, using the SARS-CoV-2/SARS-CoV Multiplex REAL-TIME PCR kit. The analysis showed a significant fluctuation in the number of positive samples, with distinct peaks in September-October 2021 and January 2022, which corresponded to the waves of the pandemic and the circulation of new variants, including Omicron. The number of tests and positive cases showed a general upward trend, although with monthly variations influenced by epidemiological and seasonal factors. During the analyzed period, distinct waves of SARS-CoV-2 infection were observed, characterized by different rates of spread that appear to be related to different epidemiological factors, including the circulation of viral variants and the level of immunization in the population. Preventive measures and the level of vaccination have played an important role in controlling the spread of the virus in certain periods. Even though the pandemic has ended, maintaining capacities for continuous laboratory monitoring with molecular techniques remains important for rapid response to future infectious threats. It is also recommended to follow the circulation of new variants of respiratory viruses and dynamically adapt public health measures in accordance with epidemiological trends.