Molecular diagnostics company Co-Diagnostics has completed the principal design work of a PCR test for the monkeypox virus, which is currently exhibiting a multi-country outbreak.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), monkeypox is a virus originally transmitted to humans from animals, and then transmitted from one person to another by close contact with lesions, body fluids, respiratory droplets, and contaminated materials such as bedding. Since May 13, 2022, cases of monkeypox have been reported to WHO from 18 Member States that are not endemic for the virus.

When complete, the new test will feature the company’s patented CoPrimer technology and was designed using its proprietary software system.

“One of the most important lessons the world learned following the COVID-19 pandemic is the importance of quick, decisive action in the face of any potential outbreak of transmissible viruses,” says Co-Diagnostics CEO Dwight Egan. “This means being prepared for every scenario. Co-Dx was founded with the mission to increase the accessibility of affordable, high-quality molecular testing products around the world, and we look forward to eventually making this test available in affected regions as needed to help slow the spread of the virus through early and accurate detection.”

Co-Diagnostics, is a molecular diagnostics company that develops, manufactures, and markets diagnostics technology. The company’s technology is utilized for tests that are designed using the detection and/or analysis of nucleic acid molecules (DNA or RNA).

The company also uses its proprietary technology to design specific tests to locate genetic markers for use in industries other than infectious disease and license the use of those tests to specific customers.