Key points
- Monkeypox is diagnosed using real-time PCR tests.
- Tests are available through local, state, territorial or tribal health department and many large commercial laboratories.
- Clinicians should collect two swabs from each lesion in case additional testing, such as clade-specific testing, is needed.
Background
Testing basics
- Monkeypox is diagnosed using real-time PCR tests. These tests are available through your local, state, territorial or tribal health department and many large commercial laboratories.
- Results are usually available in 2-4 days.
- Clinicians should notify their state or territorial health department if they have a patient with monkeypox-like symptoms and, if needed, ask about testing options.
Infection prevention and control
- Before testing, review CDC's Biosafety Laboratory Guidance for Handling and Processing Monkeypox Specimens for recommended laboratory procedures and biosafety guidelines when collecting, handling, and processing specimens.
- To protect yourself and your staff during and after contact with patients who may have monkeypox, consult CDC's guidance on Infection Prevention and Control of Monkeypox in Healthcare Settings.
- While waiting for results, advise your patient to take precautions to avoid getting or spreading monkeypox to others.
Specimen collection
- Clinicians should collect two swabs from each lesion (generally from 2-3 lesions) in case additional testing, such as clade-specific testing, is needed for these patients.
- Collect skin lesion material for initial laboratory testing.
- Once collected, these specimens can be tested at commercial laboratories or laboratories within the Laboratory Response Network.
Resources
The signs and symptoms of monkeypox can include a new or unexplained rash, fever, and more.
Laboratory guidance for safely working with suspected or confirmed monkeypox virus specimens.
Monkeypox prevention and control recommendations for healthcare settings.
CDC can test tissue of patients with severe monkeypox to determine etiology.
CDC guidance for monitoring and PEP after MPXV exposure in healthcare settings.
Monkeypox case reporting information for health departments
Current and past outbreaks of monkeypox
You may need a monkeypox test if you have a rash that looks like monkeypox and other risk factors.
Prioritize infection control strategies at home to help prevent monkeypox transmission.