New Delhi: Monkeypox continues to be a significant threat across the world, as the viral disease spreads to new areas outside Africa. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the virus has become a global public health threat amid this, the health ministry of India has heightened their vigilance across bordering lands like Pakistan and Bangladesh. Following the fear, Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone, a government of Andhra Pradesh’s research body, in association with Transasia Diagnostics on Saturday announced the development of India’s first indigenous RT-PCR kit for diagnosis of the disease.
The kit has been launched under the brand name ErbaMDx Monkeypox RT-PCR kit, MedTech officials announced it as India’s first indigenously developed testing solution for MPox.
According to reports, the kid has achieved approval from the Indian Council for Medical Research (ICRM) and received emergency authorisation from the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSC0) which comes under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Further, the report also noted that the price of the kit will be fixed later.
What is the shelf life of the kit?
Normally, an RT-PCR kit has a 12-month shelf life and this kit stands out with its lyophilised components, which enable it to be shipped and stored at ambient temperatures. This is the most important feature for regions with restricted cold chain infrastructure, ensuring that crucial diagnostic tools are accessible even in the most remote places.
The kit has a 12-month shelf life and zero cross-reactivity with orthopoxviruses. It promises exceptional accuracy and dependability, as per the expert who launched the product, reported TOI.
Symptoms of Monkeypox
Symptoms of Mpox may begin 3 to 17 days after exposure to the virus and most infections last for two to four weeks. Some of the symptoms may include:
Pimples or blisters like rashes on the face, mouth and other parts of the body
Fever
Headache
Muscle aches
Backache
Swollen lymph nodes
Chills
Exhaustion
Respiratory symptoms
Following Monkeypox fear, Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone, a government of Andhra Pradesh’s research body, in association with Transasia Diagnostics on Saturday announced the development of India’s first indigenous RT-PCR kit for diagnosis of the disease. Health Conditions Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
