Abstract

Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) cause millions of deaths worldwide. They are caused by disparate bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites that have similar presentations and thus cannot be easily distinguished clinically. There is presently no standardised, rapid, accurate, sensitive, and specific point-of-care diagnostic test available that can identify causative pathogens within a few hours of consultation. Therefore, patients presenting with RTIs at all points of health care are empirically treated with broad-spectrum antibiotics designed to cover many possible pathogens.