Aegis Sciences begins Monkeypox testing in Atlanta

Aegis Sciences started monkeypox testing on Thursday, July 14.

Labs across the country will use the CDC’s orthopoxvirus test, which detects most non-smallpox-related viruses.

“The ability of commercial laboratories to test for monkeypox is an important pillar in our comprehensive strategy to combat this disease,” said CDC Director Rochelle Walensky.

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Walensky said this will not only increase testing capacity, but also make it more convenient for providers and patients to access tests by using existing provider-to-laboratory networks.

Aegis expects to perform up to 10,000 tests a week.

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On June 22, HHS announced that five commercial laboratory companies would soon begin offering monkeypox testing.

Anyone with a monkeypox-like rash is encouraged to speak with their doctor to see if they need to be tested.

Health care providers can access information on Aegis’s test here.

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