Monkeypox virus
| Test Name | Monkeypox virus |
| Alternate Name(s) | Mpox virus |
| Laboratory Module | Microbiology |
| Ordering Mnemonic |
MPOX PCR |
| Specimen Type |
|
| Collection Container |
|
| Container Information |
UTM Sterile Container CSF sterile tube
|
| Collection Information | Submit a maximum of three skin lesion specimens per patient – based on PHO’s laboratory data, detection sensitivity from individual skin specimens is high (approximately 90%) in patients with laboratory-confirmed monkeypox infection. NP /Throat swabs and blood specimens are generally not recommended in patients who have skin lesions that can be swabbed Urine is not considered a routine specimen for Mpox testing but may be considered for collection. Performance characteristics for this specimen type are not well understood by referral laboratory. |
| Test Schedule | Monday - Friday |
| Routine Turnaround Time |
3-5 days 14-21 days for Positive or Indeterminate specimens |
| Critical Values |
Positive result is made available to the healthcare provider |
| Lab Process Notes | Approval for testing and notification of specimen submission is not required. Contact PHO Customer Service (416-235-6556/1-877-604-4567) or the on-call Duty Officer (416-605-3113) after hours if you wish to consult prior to sample collection and shipment |
| Storage and Transport |
Specimen should be transported to laboratory as soon as possible after collection. Specimen should be stored at 2°C - 8°C after receipt in the laboratory and during transportation. If transportation to referral laboratory delayed more than 72 hours, specimen should be frozen at -70°C. Effective July 25, 2022, clinical specimens from patients undergoing Monkeypox virus testing have been temporarily reclassified as UN3373 Biological Substance, Category B for land and air transport. In addition to the routine Category B requirement, the outer packaging must be marked, on a contrasting background, with “TU 0886”, “Temporary Certificate – TU 0886” or “Certificat Temporaire – TU 0886”. For full details on packaging and transporting, see the Temporary Certificate TU 0886. |
| Test Referred To | Offsite, Referral Laboratory |
Contact Us
The Brantford General
200 Terrace Hill Street
Brantford, ON
N3R 1G9
519-751-5544
The Willett, Paris
238 Grand River St. North
Paris, ON
N3L 2N7
519-442-2251
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