“…The number of samples per group is adjusted to increase the identification of undetectable pools (Step 6 in Figure 1). This is because in populations where the prevalence of the investigated condition is low, a larger number of samples can be pooled, and there is a greater probability of the test results yielding undetectable viral RNA levels while maintaining sensitivity to detect the viral RNA as observed in the characterization of sample pools and individual sample testing in previous studies, (7) thereby reducing costs, which can be estimated in different scenarios based on the number of positive pools, (8) optimizing resources and expanding access to the diagnostic test. (1) Based on its application in Brazil and developing countries, the pool testing strategy is a viable alternative that must be widely disseminated, as reagents for performing RT-qPCR are not locally produced and must be imported, which explains the high cost per test.…”