Mpox Clade 1b Detected: How Rapid Testing with Vivalytic Can Aid in Containment

Mpox, formerly known as Monkeypox, is a viral infection that has seen significant global attention due to recent outbreaks. As of August 2024, the UK has reported a total of 4,018 confirmed and highly probable mpox cases since May 2022 (1).

In October, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported its first case of Clade 1b Mpox (2)—a more severe strain that has been spreading in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and other parts of Africa, prompting the World Health Organisation to declare it a public health emergency of international concern in August 2024 (3). This detection has led UKHSA to initiate contact tracing and monitor for potential further spread. Although the public risk is currently low, quick identification and containment remain vital for managing any risks associated with this High Consequence Infectious Disease (HCID).

According to a report on Mpox diagnostic testing published by the UKHSA, PCR testing remains the gold standard for Mpox detection, offering unmatched sensitivity and specificity essential for accurate diagnosis and effective containment (4). At Randox, with a strong commitment to public health and diagnostic innovation, we offer the Vivalytic MPXV Rapid Test to support healthcare professionals in identifying cases quickly and accurately, helping to strengthen containment efforts.

Understanding Mpox Clade 1b and Its Implications

Clade 1b of the mpox virus is part of the High Consequence Infectious Disease (HCID) category due to its higher transmission potential and more severe symptom profile compared to other strains. With a broad incubation period ranging from 5 days to 3 weeks (5), symptoms include:

• Skin rashes that progress to blisters or ulcers
• Fever, headaches, and muscle aches
• Swollen lymph nodes
• In severe cases, respiratory issues or widespread skin lesions
o Mpox infection is often self-limiting and usually lasts 2 to 4 weeks (5).

The transmission of mpox occurs through close contact with infectious lesions, bodily fluids, or contaminated materials. This can include skin-to-skin contact during sexual or intimate contact, as well as sharing items like bedding, towels, or clothing. Mpox infection is often self-limiting and usually lasts 2 to 4 weeks (5) and has a mortality rate estimated to be between 1% and 11% (6). Clade 1b’s recent spread outside of endemic regions, including cases in Germany, Sweden, and India (7) signals the need for proactive diagnostic and containment strategies.

Enter Vivalytic

The Vivalytic MPXV Rapid Test provides healthcare professionals with a comprehensive tool for detecting both Clade I (HCID, including Clade 1b) and Clade II of the Mpox Virus, as well as other Orthopoxvirus species. Its rapid and reliable performance is particularly valuable in high-stakes scenarios, where early detection can help prevent further spread. Key features include.

Features of the Vivalytic MPXV Panel

• Quick Results: Results in just 45 minutes allow for timely decision-making.
• Comprehensive Detection: This test identifies both Clade I (HCID, including Clade 1b) and Clade II of the Mpox Virus, as well as other Orthopoxvirus species such as cowpox and vaccinia virus.
• Minimal Sample Requirement: Only 300 µL needed, reducing sample handling and maintaining accuracy.
• Intuitive Workflow: The compact Vivalytic streamlines the entire molecular workflow through a 4-step process—scanning, inputting, adding the sample to the cartridge, and receiving results on the touchscreen display, all at the point of care.

Supporting Public Health Responses with Randox

As part of our commitment to public health, Randox provides high-quality diagnostic tools designed to address infectious diseases like mpox. The Vivalytic MPXV Rapid Test supports rapid detection and strengthens the healthcare system’s ability to respond to emerging infectious threats. With the first UK case of Clade 1b now identified, rapid testing and response are essential components in the continued effort to protect public health.

Learn more about the Vivalytic, with one of the largest test menus on the market and how it can support your testing needs this winter here: Vivalytic | Point of Care | Randox Laboratories

Contact marketing@randox.com for more information

References

1. UK (2024). Mpox (Mpox) outbreak: epidemiological overview, 8 August 2024. [online] GOV.UK. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/Mpox-outbreak-epidemiological-overview/mpox-Mpox-outbreak-epidemiological-overview-8-august-2024.
2. Thomas, R. (2024). First case of new potentially deadly mpox strain Clade 1b detected in UK. [online] The Independent. Available at: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/health/mpox-uk-clade-1b-monkeypox-b2638777.html [Accessed 6 Nov. 2024].
3. World health Organisation (WHO). (2024). Mpox outbreak. [online] Available at: https://www.who.int/emergencies/situations/mpox-outbreak.
4. UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) (2024). Mpox (monkeypox): diagnostic testing. [online] GOV.UK. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/monkeypox-diagnostic-testing#sampling-for-diagnostic-testing.
5. Guarner, J., del Rio, C. and Malani, P.N. (2022). Monkeypox in 2022—What Clinicians Need to Know. JAMA, [online] 328(2). doi:https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2022.10802.
6. CDC (2024). Mpox. [online] Mpox. Available at: https://www.cdc.gov/mpox/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/poxvirus/mpox/travel/index.html [Accessed 6 Nov. 2024].
7. Reed, J. (2024). New mpox strain spreads to household contacts in the UK. BBC News. [online] 4 Nov. Available at: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/cx27q0y6rl9o.