Both terms will be used for the next year as WHO phases out usage of monkeypox.
In some cases, people couldnt access tests when they wanted one.
Inadequate testing can leave health officials in the dark about the scope of the outbreak.
Verywell Health / Laura Porter
Earlywarning signsof an mpox infection include fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes.
For now, theres no way to confirm these early casesthe test can only detect the virus in lesions.
Its important from an individual and a public health standpoint.
Where to Find a Test
There is currently no national website to search for mpox test locations.
Some localities and states have websites where you might search for clinics that offer testing.
Sexual health clinics have become key in addressing the current outbreak.
Sexual health clinics often already serve this community and can provide some anonymity that lacks in primary care prefs.
The CDC now has contracts with fivecommercial laboratoriesto run mpox tests.
When a test is run by a public health lab, they are free to patients.
But when tested by a commercial lablike LabCorp and Questthat may not be the case.
People who are underinsured or uninsured may receive a bill for the test.
However, the Biden administration said it is working to make mpox testing free to the public.
They usually dont need to pop or break open any lesions to get a good sample.
There are currently no at-home tests available for mpox.
This could take between two and four weeks.
Read the CDCs guidance for the best ways to self-isolate.
The turnaround time has improved, but results can still take24 hoursto a few days.
Weatherhead said the Houston health department is returning results in about 12 hours.
While you wait for your results, its best to assume youre infected until proven otherwise.
Its unlikely that an mpox test would produce a false negative.
When a patient has lesions and other classic symptoms, the testing is pretty straightforward, Weatherhead said.
This is a virus that weve known about for a long timefor decades.
Mpox canprimarily spreadthrough skin-to-skin contact.
But someone can also pick it up from an infected item of clothing, bedsheets, or shared surfaces.
Regardless, the CDC recommends wearing a well-fitting face mask, even if you no longer have flu-like symptoms.
you’ve got the option to do this with bandages and clothing.
If you develop lesions, contact a health provider or visit a clinic to request a test.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Monkeypox: 2022 U.S. map & case count.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Monkeypox: clinical recognition.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Monkeypox: isolation and prevention practices for people with monkeypox.
