WHO Approves First Rapid Mpox Diagnostic Test Amid Rising Global Cases

The World Health Organization (WHO) has approved the first rapid diagnostic test for mpox, a key development in curbing the rising global cases of the virus, previously known as monkeypox. The new PCR test can detect mpox DNA from skin lesion swabs, providing immediate results, significantly speeding up the process compared to current tests that require samples to be sent to a laboratory, causing delays.

This breakthrough is expected to be especially helpful in Africa, where limited testing capacity has exacerbated the spread of mpox. Of the 30,000 suspected cases in Africa this year, only 40% have been confirmed through existing tests, according to WHO data. The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the hardest-hit country with 635 deaths from mpox this year, is set to launch an mpox vaccination program this Saturday.

Yukiko Nakatani, WHO’s assistant director-general, hailed the new diagnostic tool as a “significant milestone” in increasing access to quality healthcare products. This new test is expected to strengthen efforts to contain the virus, particularly in underserved regions.