NYS Expands Monkeypox Testing

After ​​the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) approved Quest Diagnostics’ recent application or testing to identify Monkeypox, we are now able to further expand the state’s testing capacity. The testing uses real-time PCR technology to test samples from individuals who are showing symptoms of Monkeypox, such as vesicular rashes or pustules.

New York State Health Commissioner Dr. Mary Bassett stated: “As we continue to expand Monkeypox testing capacity through the additional use of private labs, it’s important to know that the state’s Wadsworth Center also has available capacity for additional testing. But the real challenge with testing is that it involves swabbing lesions, which must be present for the test to assess whether the virus is also present. Without lesions, testing is not currently possible. We will continue working to make sure providers know when and how to test for monkeypox.”

Source: 13 WHAM