Abstract: Objective To investigate the use of quantitative real-time PCR as an alternative tothe screening plate culture method for the detection of salmonella and shigella in pre-employmenthealth examinations, comparing the two methods in terms of detection rate, cost, and duration oftesting. Methods Compare the screening test results of salmonella and shigella detection using thebacterial screening plate culture method in 10 100 cases in 2023 with the screening test results ofsalmonella and shigella detection using the quantitative real-time PCR method in 9 842 cases in2024. Results Quantitative real-time PCR method demonstrated a high level of screening power(91 / 9 842 in 2024 vs. 0 / 10 100 in 2023) with a lower total cost (4. 4 yuan / sample in 2004 vs. 6. 9 yuan / sample in 2023) . In addition, quantitative real-time PCR can be implemented without increasing the testing duration and is easy to carry out. Conclusion Quantitative real-time PCR can be usedas a screening test for salmonella and shigella detection in pre-employment health examinations.

Key words: preventive health examination, salmonella, shigella, quantitative real-time PCR