As of 12 January 2023

Mpox Testing at RITM:
Mpox is a rare disease caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. The laboratory testing for all sample referrals for Mpox is done by the RITM-Special Pathogens Laboratory using an optimized commercial PCR Assay. Specimen may be submitted to RITM through the RITM Specimen Receiving Area managed by the RITM-Clinical Laboratory (CL) following the procedures outlined below:

1. MPox Testing Required Documents:
Clinical Doctors requesting for Mpox testing must first accomplish all the necessary documents: RITM Laboratory Request Form, Line list and Case Investigation Form (CIF).

For suspected MPOX sample referrals, the RESU or referring institution shall coordinate directly with the Surveillance and Response Unit of the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM-SRU). All necessary information regarding patient information, sample collection, transport and shipment shall be provided accordingly.

2. Turnaround Time and Results:
The typical turnaround time is 48 hours which will commence from receipt of specimen at RITM to reporting of laboratory result. RITM-SRU will send results to the respective RESU and Epidemiology Bureau. The RESU will be forwarding results to the respective Disease Reporting Unit/Hospital. The Disease Reporting Unit/Hospital will relay the result to the patient.