WHO Approves First Mpox Diagnostic Test for Emergency Use: Expanding Global Access

WHO Approves First Mpox Diagnostic Test for Emergency Use: Expanding Global Access

Sub : Sci

Sec: Health

Why In News

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently approved the first Mpox diagnostic test under its Emergency Use Listing (EUL), which is crucial for expanding diagnostic capacity and tackling the spread of the virus in Africa and other affected regions. This approval marks a significant step in improving access to accurate and timely testing, especially in countries grappling with Mpox outbreaks.

WHO’s First Emergency Use-Listed Mpox Diagnostic Test

The WHO has approved Alinity m MPXV assay, developed by Abbott Molecular Inc, as the first Mpox in vitro diagnostic test under the Emergency Use Listing (EUL) procedure. This real-time PCR test is designed to detect monkeypox virus (clade I/II) DNA from human skin lesion swabs, ensuring rapid and precise diagnosis.

In 2024, Africa reported over 30,000 suspected cases of Mpox. Limited testing capacity in the region has contributed to the virus’s spread, delaying diagnosis and containment efforts.

How Alinity m MPXV assay works?

Detects monkeypox virus (clade I/II) DNA from skin lesion swabs. Uses polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for precise virus identification.

Provides quick confirmation of Mpox in suspected cases. Designed for trained clinical personnel in PCR techniques.

Approved by WHO under the Emergency Use Listing (EUL) to address Mpox outbreaks.

What is Mpox?

Mpox is a viral zoonotic disease caused by the monkeypox virus which was first recorded in humans in 1970 in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Mpox can be transmitted to humans through physical contact with someone who is infectious, with contaminated materials, or with infected animals.

There are no specific treatments for Mpox virus infection.

In 2022, the disease was declared a global emergency after it spread to some 70 countries. The emergency was withdrawn in 2023.

There are two known types (clades) of mpox virus: clade I and clade II

Clade I:

Severity: Clade I is considered the more severe and deadlier variant.

Transmission: This clade is typically transmitted from animals to humans, which is known as zoonotic transmission.

Geographical Distribution: Historically, Clade I have been more common in Central Africa, where human-to-animal interaction is higher.

Clade II:

Subdivisions: Clade II is further divided into Clade IIa and Clade IIb.

Clade IIb is the newer variant responsible for the recent global outbreak.

Transmission: This clade is more transmissible between humans, and it has been linked to human-to-human transmission, including through close contact and sexual activity.

Affected Groups: Clade IIb has affected more women and children in Africa and is spreading faster than previous variants.