Monkeypox Testing Swabs - FAQ

Monkeypox  – General Information

Monkeypox is a virus transmitted from animals to humans that is effect to smallpox, except less severe.¹ The first outbreak occurred in the 1970s with the most recentattackutbreak occurring in Nigeria in 2017.

Surveillance and quickly identifying the virus are critical for containing the virus. Training professionals should handle samples taken that have the monkeypox virus with caution. 

If you suspect you have monkeypox, it is critical to contact your local county health department.

How do you test for monkeypox?

There are FDA-cleared, PCR-based monkeypox tests available at LabCorp and other testing companies.  

Sample collection involves brushing a swab against the base of a lesion. The tool of choice is usually a sterile dry polyester or rayon swab. Insert the swab into the tube after breaking it at the scoreline. Only one swab is needed, although your kit may contain two.²

Ensure wearing good medical grade PPE when near those who may have monkeypox. N95 masks or other respirators should be worn at all times.³ 

The tester may take a sample from the throat if lesions have not developed. Still, continuous monitoring should occur for those suspected of being infected even if the first test returns negative.