WHO Approves Rapid Diagnostic Test for Mpox Amid Rising Global Cases

AFRICAN BUSINESS AND ECONOMYOctober 7, 2024 at 5:04 PM UTC

TLDR

WHO approves first rapid diagnostic test for mpox, enabling instant detection from skin lesion swabs using PCR test.
Test aims to curb global spread of mpox, crucial for Africa with testing delays exacerbating the outbreak.
DRC readies mpox vaccination program as virus claims 635 lives, declared global emergency by WHO.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has approved the first rapid diagnostic test for mpox, enabling immediate detection of the virus from skin lesion swabs using a PCR test.

This test, which delivers results instantly, could play a critical role in curbing the global spread of mpox, particularly in Africa, where testing delays have exacerbated the outbreak. Previously, samples had to be sent to laboratories, leading to long waiting times for results.

This breakthrough coincides with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) preparing to launch its mpox vaccination program, where the virus has killed at least 635 people this year. The WHO declared mpox a global public health emergency for the second time in August, following rising cases in the DRC and spread to neighboring countries.

Key Takeaways

The approval of a rapid mpox diagnostic test marks a major advancement in combating the virus, particularly in regions with limited healthcare infrastructure. With the virus spreading across Africa and beyond, this test, along with vaccination programs in the DRC, Rwanda, and Nigeria, is vital to controlling the outbreak and protecting vulnerable populations. However, more vaccines are urgently needed to contain the epidemic, as underscored by the ongoing global efforts. Africa has reported over 30,000 suspected mpox cases this year, but less than 40% have been confirmed due to limited testing capacity.

Economy

Healthcare

MPox

WHO

Vaccines

DRC

Democratic Republic of Congo