Sequential multiplex PCR for identifying pneumococcal capsular serotypes from south-Saharan African clinical isolates

A serial multiplex PCR approach was reformulated for pneumococcal serotyping to test 153 clinical isolates from children in Mozambique. This approach identified serotypes in 139 (90.8%) of 153 isolates; 126 (82.4%) were identified within two reactions. This approach in developing countries would require minimal training and could provide useful serotype information without requiring transport of specimens.