Abbott Laboratories’ first emergency use diagnostic test for mpox has received approval from the World Health Organization (WHO).
The purpose of this action is to improve the ability for early detection in areas where outbreaks are currently occurring.
The test, called the Alinity m MPXV assay, uses real-time PCR technology to identify the DNA of the mpox virus from swabs of human skin lesions, enabling prompt and precise diagnosis.
The WHO said on October 4, 2024, that it is meant to be used by qualified laboratory personnel.
The WHO’s assistant director-general for access to medications and health products, Yukiko Nakatani, stressed that the diagnostic tool’s approval through the Emergency Use Listing (EUL) process is a critical step in combating the continuing pandemic.
The decision is also a critical step for strengthening international immunization campaigns, particularly in areas of Africa where the pandemic is still rife.
Health experts in India are keeping a tight eye on the Clade Ib strain’s spread, and the government is stressing the importance of rigorous testing and immunization programs to stop the virus’s spread.
These efforts should be strengthened by the WHO’s approval of the Abbott diagnostic test, which will allow for more accurate identification and prompt action.
In order to lessen the impact of mpox globally, the international health community is still concentrated on developing testing and immunization programs while the WHO continues to assess new diagnostic instruments and work with manufacturers.
