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The World Health Organization (WHO) recently approved a rapid PCR test for mpox, marking a crucial step in the fight against this rapidly spreading virus. Unlike previous testing methods, which required sending samples to labs and waiting days for results, the new PCR test delivers immediate answers. This advancement could be essential for controlling mpox’s spread, particularly in regions where testing delays and limited resources hinder effective response.
This new test can detect mpox DNA from skin lesion swabs, simplifying and accelerating diagnosis. In Africa, where mpox has been spreading at an alarming rate, over 30,000 suspected cases have been reported this year, but less than half have been confirmed through testing. The introduction of the new PCR test aims to address this gap by making it easier to identify and isolate cases, potentially curbing further spread.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo, which reports the highest number of mpox cases, will soon launch a vaccination program to complement the new diagnostic tool. Vaccination campaigns are also ongoing in neighboring countries, as the virus has spread to other regions, placing additional pressure on healthcare systems. Organizations like the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) are coordinating vaccine distribution across the continent, prioritizing frontline healthcare workers and close contacts of infected individuals.
Efforts to contain mpox are now supported by vaccine donations from Western countries, which recognize the importance of global collaboration in managing the outbreak. However, more vaccine doses are urgently needed, as reports indicate demand far outstrips supply. By improving access to both diagnostic tests and vaccines, WHO and Africa CDC hope to strengthen regional responses to mpox, particularly in underserved areas. These combined efforts may help prevent further escalation of the outbreak and protect vulnerable populations across the continent.
