WHO Approves First Mpox Diagnostic Test For Emergency Use

The World Health Organization (WHO) has approved the use of the first diagnostic test for mpox that will deliver immediate results. The new PCR test enables the detection of the virus by testing swabs of skin lesions. WHO said that the approval will be significant in expanding diagnostic capacity in countries facing mpox outbreaks, where the need for quick and accurate testing has risen sharply.

Patients currently have to wait several days for results. According to the WHO, limited testing capacity and delays in confirming mpox cases persist in Africa, contributing to the continued spread of the virus. Over 30,000 suspected cases have been reported this year across the region, with the highest numbers in Congo, Burundi, and Nigeria. The health agency also noted that in Congo, the epicentre of the current outbreak, only 37% of suspected cases have been tested in 2024. 

"By detecting DNA from pustular or vesicular rash samples, laboratory and health workers can confirm suspected mpox cases efficiently and effectively," added WHO in a statement. Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, has been detected in 16 African countries this year. The virus is transmitted by human-to-human contact and contact with infected animals. The agency also said it was evaluating three new mpox diagnostic tests for emergency use and was also in discussions with other manufacturers to expand the availability of mpox diagnostic tools.