Sonic Healthcare USA was selected as one of five commercial laboratories authorized by the USnDepartment of Health and Human Services (HHS) through the CDC to begin test validation using the CDC Non-variola Orthopoxvirus, high complexity NAAT (RT-PCR) molecular assay to identify Monkeypox.
“As a leader in diagnostic medicine, it is our responsibility to work hand-in-hand with our government partners to mitigate public health outbreaks,” says Jerry Hussong, MD, MBA, CEO of Sonic Healthcare USA. Testing will be performed at Sonic Reference Laboratory in Austin, Texas and available to providers and their patients through Sonic’s network of clinical laboratories located across the United States.
Monkeypox is a rare disease with symptoms that include a characteristic rash, which may be confused with common skin infections, such as varicella (chickenpox/shingles), herpes simplex virus, and syphilis. The rash typically appears on the face, inside of the mouth, genitals, and other body parts. Monkeypox is transmitted primarily through direct contact with a skin lesion, respiratory droplets during prolonged close contact, placental transfer, and handling of animals infected by the virus.
Sonic Healthcare USA’s medical and scientific leaders are actively monitoring the 2022 U.S. Monkeypox Outbreak. To date, over 400 human infections have been confirmed in the United States, involving over 30 states. High quality, readily accessible diagnostic testing is essential to prevent the further spread of the disease.
Sonic will continue to expand this service as the situation surrounding the monkeypox virus advances, making test availability a priority while partnering with federal, state, and local health departments to reach healthcare providers and their patients.
