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WHO Approves First Diagnostic Test for Mpox Amid Outbreaks in Africa
The WHO has approved the first diagnostic test for mpox, enhancing detection in Africa amid outbreaks. This crucial tool aids in quickly identifying the virus, with over 800 deaths reported.
ND
by News Desk
2024-10-04
WHO Approves First Diagnostic Test for Mpox Amid Outbreaks in Africa

The World Health Organization (WHO) announced the approval of the first diagnostic test for mpox, a critical development for countries grappling with outbreaks of the disease. The approval comes in light of the concerning statistics reported by the African Union’s disease control centre, indicating that more than 800 individuals have died from mpox across 16 countries in Africa.

 

The newly approved test, known as the Alinity m MPXV assay, is manufactured by Abbott Molecular Inc. It allows for the detection of the mpox virus from swabs collected from human lesions, facilitating efficient and effective confirmation of suspected cases. According to the WHO, this innovation will significantly enhance the diagnostic capacity in countries where the need for rapid and accurate testing has surged.

 

“The approval for emergency use will be pivotal in expanding diagnostic capacity in countries facing mpox outbreaks,” stated the WHO. The organization highlighted that limited testing resources and delays in confirming mpox cases have hampered efforts to contain the virus’s spread across Africa.

 

Yukiko Nakatani, an assistant director-general of WHO, emphasized the importance of increasing access to quality-assured medical products, stating, “This represents a significant milestone in expanding testing availability in affected countries. Increasing access to quality-assured medical products is central to our efforts in assisting countries to contain the spread of the virus and protect their people, especially in underserved regions.”

 

Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that can be transmitted to humans through infected animals and can also spread between humans through close physical contact. Symptoms typically include fever, muscular aches, and the development of large, boil-like skin lesions. While mpox can be fatal, the risk of severe illness and death is higher among certain vulnerable populations.

 

The approval of the Alinity m MPXV assay marks a crucial step in the global response to the mpox outbreak, as health officials aim to strengthen diagnostic and treatment capabilities in affected regions.
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