How to Use the Monkeypox Test Kit for Various Sample Types

With the recent rise in Monkeypox cases, accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial in managing outbreaks. The iCARE Monkeypox Virus Antigen Rapid Test Kit offers a reliable and fast method for detecting Monkeypox virus antigens using different sample types. This guide will walk you through the procedures for testing various sample types, including whole blood, serum, plasma, oropharyngeal swabs, and blain exudate. By following the outlined steps, healthcare professionals can ensure accurate results and efficient patient care.

Materials Provided in the Monkeypox Rapid Test Kit

Each iCARE Monkeypox Test Kit includes:

• 25 individually wrapped test cards
• 25 extraction solutions
• 25 sterile swabs
• 25 droppers
• Instruction manual​

Additional materials such as timers, alcohol pads, and biohazard containers are not provided but are required for safe and effective testing.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Testing Various Sample Types

1. Whole Blood Monkeypox Virus Testing

Testing whole blood is one of the simplest methods offered by the iCARE Monkeypox test kit. This process is suitable for cases where blood collection is feasible through venipuncture or fingerstick.

Steps for Whole Blood Monkeypox Testing:

1. Prepare the test device By removing it from its foil pouch and placing it on a clean, flat surface.
2. Collect the blood sample By either venipuncture into a tube containing anticoagulant (such as EDTA or citrate) or through a fingerstick.
3. Use the dropper To place one drop of whole blood (about 30 µL) into the test card’s specimen well (S).
4. Immediately add two drops of extraction solution to the same well (S).
5. Start the timer and wait 15 minutes for the results.
6. Interpret the results:

• A positive result will show two colored lines (one in the control line region and one in the test line region).
• A negative result will show only the control line.
• An invalid result occurs if the control line does not appear, and the test should be repeated​.

2. Serum or Plasma Monkeypox Testing

Serum and plasma testing require the separation of these components from a blood sample. This method is often used when high-precision diagnostic results are needed.

Steps for Serum or Plasma Testing:

1. Collect blood and either allow it to clot for serum or centrifuge it immediately for plasma.
2. Prepare the test card by placing it on a stable surface.
3. Use a dropper to apply one drop (30 µL) of serum or plasma to the test card’s specimen well (S).
4. Add two drops of extraction solution immediately.
5. Wait 15 minutes and observe the test card.
6. Read the results similarly to the whole blood test: two lines for positive, one line for negative, and no lines for invalid​.

3. Oropharyngeal Swab Monkeypox Virus Testing

This method involves collecting a sample from the back of the throat, which is particularly useful for detecting respiratory-related infections like Monkeypox.

Steps for Oropharyngeal Swab Testing:

1. Open the sterile swab from the kit and ensure it does not touch any non-sterile surfaces.
2. Insert the swab into the patient’s mouth, carefully swabbing the tonsils, pharynx, and uvula to collect as much secretion as possible.
3. Prepare the extraction solution by tearing open its sealing film and placing the swab inside the tube.
4. Rotate the swab in the solution for 10 seconds, pressing the swab tip against the tube wall to release the antigen.
5. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible from the swab before discarding it in a biohazard container.
6. Apply two drops of the extracted specimen to the test card’s specimen well (S).
7. Wait 15 minutes and interpret the result as described in previous sections​.

4. Blain Exudate Monkeypox Testing

Blain exudate testing involves taking a sample from a skin lesion (blain), which is particularly effective for detecting Monkeypox in symptomatic patients with visible lesions.

Steps for Blain Exudate Monkeypox Virus Testing:

1. Locate the lesion on the patient’s skin that is indicative of Monkeypox.
2. Use a sterile swab to rub the lesion back and forth several times, ensuring you collect enough of the exudate for testing.
3. Insert the swab into the extraction solution tube, rotating it for 15 seconds to release the antigen from the lesion.
4. Press and squeeze the swab tip against the tube wall to extract as much liquid as possible before discarding the swab.
5. Place two drops of the extracted specimen into the test card’s specimen well (S).
6. Start the timer for 15 minutes and then read the results according to the same guidelines mentioned above​.

Interpreting the Results of Monkeypox Virus Test

For all sample types, the results are interpreted in the same way:

• Positive Result: Two colored lines appear, one in the control line (C)region and one in the test line (T)
• Negative Result: Only one colored line appears in the control line (C)
• Invalid Result: No colored lines appear in the control region, indicating the test was not performed correctly. In this case, the test must be repeated using a new kit​.

Best Practices for Accurate Results

To ensure accuracy when using the iCARE Monkeypox Virus Antigen Rapid Test Kit:

• Use fresh specimens and test them as soon as possible after collection to avoid degradation.
• Avoid hemolyzed samples, as this can interfere with the results.
• Store the kit between 2°C and 30°C, away from direct sunlight, and ensure all components reach room temperature before use.
• Handle all materials with care, following appropriate safety and biohazard disposal procedures​.

Conclusion

The iCARE Monkeypox Virus Antigen Rapid Test Kit is an essential tool for diagnosing Monkeypox in both clinical and emergency settings. By following the appropriate steps for each sample type—whole blood, serum, plasma, oropharyngeal swab, and blain exudate—healthcare professionals can ensure that they obtain accurate results within 15 minutes, allowing for timely intervention and care. This rapid testing capability is crucial for controlling outbreaks and protecting public health.