Molecular Detection of Mpox (MPOX)  

 
NPHL has moved to an electronic ordering system, NUlirt, and it is now the preferred method to order all tests. Once ordered, print a "batch list" (see NUlirt Guide).

Forms Required - Nulirt batch list or NPHL Test Request Form (completed in entirety) must accompany the specimen to include the following information: symptoms and date of onset, pregnancy status, travel and vaccine history. Testing will not be performed without all required information.

Please call NPHL Client Services at (402) 559-2440 or toll free at (800) 334-0459 for further clarification.

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Test: Molecular Detection of Mpox
  • No pre-approval required
  • NUlirt order: MPOX
 
Synonym:
  • Monkeypox, Non-variola orthopox, Orthopox, Orthopoxvirus
 
Method:
  • Cepheid Xpert Mpox Assay
 
Availability:
  • Monday - Friday
  • Turnaround time 1-2 days
 
Specimen:
  • Swabs of lesion in viral transport media (VTM/UTM)
  • Test subject to CLIA regulations and requires 2 patient identifiers on container and requisition forms
  • Seal tubes with Parafilm™ or tape and place in biohazard bag with absorbent material
 
Collection Device:
  • Viral transport media (VTM/UTM)
 
Volume:
  • Requested volume for liquid clinical samples: 1 mL
  • Minium volume for liquid clinical amples: 0.5 mL
 
Storage/Transport:  
Unacceptable:
  • Swabs collected in inapproprate transport media, inapproprate specimen type, incorrect storage
 
Specimen Stability:
  • Refrigerated (2-8 °C) for up to 7 days in transport medium
 
Reference Interval:  
Reportable Disease:  
Comments:
  • Collection Procecure: 
    • Identify two suspected mpox lesions, preverably from two different locations on the body.
    • Label two tubes containing 3 mL of viral transport medium (VTM/UTM) with two patient identifiers, swabbing location, date and time of collection, and collectors initials.
    • Using a sterile swb, apply firm pressure to the lesion and swipe the swab back and forth at least 2-3 times before rotating the swab and repeating using the other side of the swab. If the lesion ruptures while swabbing, ensure to collect some of the lesion fluid on the swab as well.
    • Remove and place each swab into a separate tube containing 3 mL of viral transport medium (VTM/UTM). Break swab at the indicated break line (if necessary) and cap the specimen collection tube tightly to ensure it does not leak in transport.
    • Mix by inverting rapidly 5 times.
 
Revised: 8/26/2024 
If you have questions about proper specimen collection, please call NPHL Client Services at (402) 559-2440 or toll free at (800) 334-0459.

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