Listen to Story The World Health Organisation (WHO) has approved the first test to diagnose mpox under its Emergency Use Listing (EUL). Mpox, which has been declared a public health emergency, is a disease caused by the monkeypox virus that leads to flu-like symptoms with skin rash and blisters. The mpox testing in vitro diagnostic (IVD) is called the Alinity m MPXV assay, developed by Abbott Molecular Inc.
The test has been approved for emergency use, marking a crucial development in ramping up testing capabilities in countries battling mpox outbreaks . The need for fast and accurate mpox testing has surged, especially in regions like Africa, where limited testing has contributed to the ongoing spread of the virus, as per the WHO's official report. Early detection of mpox is important in providing timely treatment, managing outbreaks, and controlling the spread of the disease .
The test has been approved for emergency use, marking a crucial development in ramping up testing capabilities in countries battling mpox outbreaks. (Photo: Getty Images) In 2024, over 30,000 suspected mpox cases have been reported in Africa, with the highest numbers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Burundi, and Nigeria. In the Democratic Republic of the Congo, only 37% of suspected cases have been tested so far this year, highlighting the urgency for better testing solutions.
HOW IS THE DIAGNOSTIC TEST DONE? Mpox is confirmed through nucleic acid amplification testing (NAAT), such as polymera.