Learn how the Mpox diagnostic test is performed

Mpox is under global attention for the second time since 2022, after the World Health Organization (WHO) classified it as an international public health emergency. This outbreak is fueled by a transmissible and lethal strain, the most common symptoms are fever, headache, general malaise and manifested rashes. The disease is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact with other infected people, and can appear on any part of the body.

According to infectious disease specialist and pathologist Celso Granato, a clinician at the Brazilian Society of Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (SBPC/ML), the incubation period for the Mpox virus varies from five to 21 days.

How Mpox Diagnosis Works

Other diseases present the same symptoms as smallpox, such as skin infections, herpes and even allergic reactions. To detect whether the symptoms are from this new disease, a specific test is performed in reference laboratories, such as the Adolfo Lutz Institute, the Oswaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) and the Evandro Chagas Institute, as well as private laboratories. The most common test is the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, a reliable and safe test.

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Mpox Transmission

The WHO highlighted some points that enable the transmission of the disease, they are:

• Direct contact with infected skin or lesions.
• Prolonged contact, skin to skin and mouth to mouth.
• Contact with infected animals.

Prevention of Mpox

To avoid contracting the disease and to contain the spread of Mpox, it is necessary to take some precautions recommended by the WHO:

• Avoid contact with infected skin or lesions.
• Maintain regular hand washing.
• Disclosed individuals should avoid sharing personal items.
• Vaccination.

To combat the spread of this virus, monitoring and accurate diagnosis of Mpox are essential to prevent the disease from spreading. Testing is performed using safe laboratory tests. It is essential that the population follows prevention guidelines to prevent the spread of this virus. Health professionals will be on hand to provide support, guidance and help prevent suspected cases.

Featured photo: PCR test (Reproduction/Shutterstock/Jorrnal Correios)