Monkeypox Diagnosis: Tests and Procedures Explained
Full guide to tests and procedures involved in monkeypox (mpox) diagnosis.
Monkeypox is a rare viral disease that causes a rash and other flu-like symptoms. It is similar to but less severe than smallpox. If you suspect that you have monkeypox or have been in close contact with someone who has it, it is important to visit a healthcare provider to determine if you need to be tested for the virus. In this post, we will discuss the tests and procedures involved in monkeypox diagnosis.

When to Get Tested
Currently, testing for monkeypox is only recommended if you have a rash consistent with the virus. If you think you have monkeypox or have had close personal contact with someone who has monkeypox, consider taking precautions and visit a healthcare provider to help you decide if you need to be tested for monkeypox.

Where to Get Tested
Only a healthcare provider can order a monkeypox test. The healthcare provider may take a specimen and send it to a lab for testing, or they may send you to a lab for both specimen collection and testing. Contact your local health department with any questions and to find out what the testing options are for your community.
What to Expect When You Get Tested
When you go to get tested for monkeypox, you will likely need to fill out paperwork before the testing begins. To get a specimen to test, the healthcare provider will use a swab to rub vigorously across lesions of your rash. They will take swabs from more than one lesion. This swabbing may be uncomfortable, but it is necessary to get enough material to detect the monkeypox virus from the specimens.
The specimens will be tested in a lab to see if the monkeypox virus is detected. Results are usually available within a few days. While you are waiting for your results, take precautions to avoid getting or spreading the monkeypox virus to others.
What Your Results Mean
If your test result is positive, it means that the monkeypox virus was detected in your specimens. Take the necessary steps to protect yourself and others until you have completely recovered from your infection.
If your test result is negative, it means that the test did not detect the virus, and you probably do not have monkeypox. Continue to take steps to protect yourself and others.
If your test result is inconclusive, it means that your test will need to be conducted again because not enough of the specimen was taken.
Paying for Testing
The cost of monkeypox testing depends on where you get it. Tests conducted by public health departments are usually free. Testing referrals from a private healthcare provider to a commercial lab or tests done in the hospital may involve a fee. For information on testing options in your community, contact your local health department.
Conclusion
In conclusion, monkeypox is a rare viral disease that can cause a rash and other flu-like symptoms. If you think you have monkeypox or have been in close contact with someone who has it, it is important to visit a healthcare provider to determine if you need to be tested for the virus. Testing involves taking specimens from lesions on your rash and sending them to a lab for testing. Results are usually available within a few days, and if your test result is positive, it is important to take the necessary steps to protect yourself and others until you have completely recovered from your infection. Remember to take precautions to avoid spreading the virus to others while you are waiting for your results. Contact your local health department for information on testing options in your community.