WHO is convening a Guideline Development Group (GDG) for the development of recommendations in the following areas:
Selection of appropriate specimens and microbiological tests for the diagnosis of lower respiratory tract infections
Optimal specimen collection methods
Specimen transport for microbiological testing
Criteria for laboratory rejection of specimens
The implementation of these guidelines is expected to improve timely and accurate detection of lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI’s) using in vitro diagnostic tests. This will in turn inform treatment decisions, support infection prevention and control practices, and improve antimicrobial resistance surveillance. This guidance will focus on individual and public health benefits.
GDG members will contribute to reviewing systematic reviews and evidence summaries, and to formulating recommendations. They will participate in virtual GDG meetings, which will be held periodically between October 2025 and April 2026.
Following WHO guidance for guideline development, the GDG will be composed of members from all WHO regions acting in their individual capacity rather than as representatives of affiliated organizations. GDG members were selected by WHO technical staff based on their technical expertise, their role as end-users (e.g., program managers and healthcare providers), and their representation of affected communities. GDG members are not commissioned and do not receive any financial compensation.
WHO has made available the membership list of the GDG.
In line with WHO’s policy on conflict of interest, the biographies of GDG members will be made publicly available, and members of the public and interested organizations may provide WHO with any feedback or concerns. All comments should be sent by email to amr_hhra@who.int by 12 November 2025.