QIAGEN has launched a monkeypox (now renamed mpox by WHO) test for its NeuMoDx automated PCR platform to strengthen surveillance and research into the current outbreak.
The NeuMoDx MPXV Test Strip (currently for research use only) is a multiplex test that identifies both variants of mpox. It is designed as a dual-target assay to reduce false negative results, incorrectly indicating the absence of the virus. It differentiates between the clade I and clade II variants, delivering first results in around 70 minutes on QIAGEN’s NeuMoDx 96 (pictured) and NeuMoDx 288 Molecular Systems.
“NeuMoDx MPXV enables researchers the fast and reliable qualitative detection and differentiation of both monkeypox [sic] clades, a huge help for those trying to understand and contain this virus,” said Jean-Pascal Viola, Senior Vice President, Head of the Molecular Diagnostics Business Area at QIAGEN.
The NeuMoDx assay extracts DNA from lesion fluid swabs to isolate the target nucleic acids and then conducts a real-time polymerase chain reaction. NeuMoDx has a simple three-step workflow. Test strips and core reagents and consumables are ready to use, can remain on board for a minimum of seven days and can be loaded whilst the system is operating. The NeuMoDx system is always ready to run and offers true random access testing capabilities, has up to eight hours walkaway time and produces minimal waste. The system can run up to 30 different assays and offers the versatility to run IVD certified assays, self-developed tests (SDTs) and RUO assays.
QIAGEN has been working with healthcare authorities around the world since the global mpox outbreak began in spring 2022 to contribute its broad testing portfolio and expertise in an urgent global health response. Earlier this year, QIAGEN launched the QIAstat-Dx Viral Vesicular Panel RUO, the world’s first syndromic test, for research use only, to differentiate between mpox and five other pathogens that cause similar symptoms.
QIAGEN’s sample-technology kits, testing components and instruments are also being used by public health agencies to develop their own tests. The NeuMoDx clinical PCR system can run these so-called self-developed tests (SDTs), while enabling molecular diagnostic laboratories to process larger volumes and deliver faster insights into mpox and other infectious diseases.
Some 78,000 people in more than 110 countries have been infected with the virus since the latest outbreak began this spring, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).