Rapid Diagnostic Testing for Response to the Monkeypox Outbreak ..
Source : https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/71/wr/mm7128e1.htm?s_cid=mm7128e1_w
On July 8, 2022, this report was posted online as an MMWR Early Release. Tricia A. Aden 1; Patricia Blevins, MPH 1; Shannon Whitman York, PhD 1; Stacy Rager 1; Devika Balachandran, MPA, MBA 2; Christina L. Hutson, PhD 3; David Lowe, PhD 3; Chris N.
Summary:
What is already known on this topic?
The Laboratory Response Network (LRN) includes U.S. laboratories validated to perform the non-variola Orthopoxvirus (NVO) assay.
What is added by this report?
During May 17–June 30, 2022, LRN laboratories tested 2,009 specimens from patients with suspected monkeypox. Among these, 730 (36%) specimens from 395 patients were positive for NVO. Specimens from 159 persons with NVO-positive results were confirmed by CDC to be monkeypox; confirmatory testing is pending for 236. LRN laboratories have increased testing capacity from 8,000 per week in June because of NVO assay updates.
What are the implications for public health practice?
LRN laboratories’ rapid results enable prompt patient treatment and prevention of further transmission. Expansion of testing to five large national laboratories will increase ease of access to testing.