Introduction

Mpox virus (MPV), previously called Monkeypox, is a double-stranded DNA zoonotic virus caused by an orthopoxvirus, a species of the genus Orthopoxvirus in the family Poxviridae. It is one of the human orthopoxviruses that includes variola (VARV), cowpox (CPX), and vaccinia (VACV) viruses. The symptoms of mpox disease are very similar to those of smallpox. Since the eradication of smallpox, mpox has become the most prominent orthopoxvirus to cause a public health issue. Normally found in central and west Africa it has recently made an appearance in many other non-endemic parts of the world.

Following on from the experience gained during the COVID19 crisis, where manufacturers delivered novel reagents, kits and technologies in superfast time, these same manufacturers have been ideally positioned to fastrack the research, development and delivery of kits for this emerging (in the developed world) disease in record time.

Specimens: The WHO currently recommend PCR as the preferred laboratory test given its accuracy and sensitivity. The best diagnostic samples for mpox are from skin lesions – the roof or fluid from vesicles and pustules, and dry crusts. Swabs should be sent to the lab in viral transport media, there is also the option to use a transport media that will inactivated any virus present.

Where feasible, a biopsy is an option, in this case lesion samples must be stored in a dry, sterile tube (no viral transport media) and kept cold.

In the laboratory, diagnosis is based on real-time quantitative PCR either ‘open’ i.e. can be used on most commonly found laboratory thermocyclers or ‘closed’ i.e. assay kit is limited to use on the specific instrumentation as supplied by the kit manufacturer.

Serology and antigen detection methods are of limited use because orthopoxviruses are serologically cross-reactive, so do not provide mpox-specific confirmation.

Browse through our supplier listings to find manufacturers of mpox PCR kits and reagents such as Recombinant MPXV A29 Protein (the target of a mpox virus-specific monoclonal antibody) and MPXV L1R protein (a homolog of Vaccinia virus J1R protein).

Exact specimen collection and testing procedures will vary, please ensure that you are following current recommended guidelines that apply to your geographic area.

References:

mpox - World Health Organisation

mpox: diagnostic testing - UK Gov