The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced a significant breakthrough in the fight against mpox, previously known as monkeypox, by approving the first diagnostic test specifically designed for the virus. This crucial development comes as more than 30,000 cases of mpox have been reported across Africa, with the disease claiming over 800 lives.
Mpox is a viral illness that can be transmitted to humans from infected animals and can also spread between humans through close physical contact. Symptoms of the disease include fever, muscle aches, and distinctive large boil-like skin lesions. The approval of the new diagnostic test is expected to enhance the capacity of health workers to detect the virus quickly and accurately, particularly in regions experiencing outbreaks.
The WHO emphasized the importance of this test in its statement, noting that the “approval for emergency use” will be pivotal in expanding diagnostic capabilities in countries facing mpox outbreaks. With the ability to conduct more tests, public health officials can implement measures to contain the virus’s spread more effectively.
As of now, mpox has been detected in 16 countries across Africa, with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) being one of the hardest-hit areas. The African Union’s disease control center has been closely monitoring the situation, and the need for rapid testing has become increasingly urgent.
The newly approved test, known as the Alinity m MPXV assay, was developed by Abbott Molecular, a US-based company. Following the WHO’s approval, UN agencies will purchase the test and distribute it to affected countries and regions. This test allows health workers to detect the mpox virus from swabs taken from human lesions, facilitating the confirmation of suspected cases.
According to Abbott Molecular, the Alinity m MPXV assay is described as a “continuous and random-access molecular analyzer” that can provide results in less than 115 minutes. This rapid turnaround time is crucial for timely public health responses.
Yukiko Nakatani, a WHO assistant director-general, highlighted the importance of increasing access to quality-assured medical products to assist countries in controlling the virus’s spread. She stated, “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.”
The announcement of the test’s approval comes at a critical time, as the disease continues to spread across Africa. Recently, Ghana confirmed its first case of mpox, adding to the urgency of the situation, as there are 230 suspected cases in the country. The WHO’s proactive measures and the introduction of the new diagnostic test are expected to play a vital role in managing the ongoing outbreak.
As the situation evolves, health authorities are urged to remain vigilant and proactive in their response to mpox, ensuring that the necessary resources and support are available to combat this public health challenge effectively.
With the WHO’s approval of the mpox diagnostic test, there is hope that countries will be better equipped to handle the outbreaks and prevent further transmission of the virus. Continued collaboration and support among nations and health organizations will be essential in the fight against mpox.
As the global community rallies to address the challenges posed by mpox, the focus will remain on improving surveillance, enhancing diagnostic capabilities, and ensuring that effective treatments are accessible to those in need.
