Quest Diagnostics Unveils Oropouche Virus Test Amid Rising Health Concerns
- Quest Diagnostics will launch a new test for the Oropouche virus by July 2025 to address rising health concerns.
- The test employs advanced PCR technology and serology for comprehensive diagnosis of active and past Oropouche infections.
- Quest Diagnostics secured CDC contracts to enhance laboratory readiness for emerging infectious diseases, reinforcing its public health role.
Quest Diagnostics Launches New Test for Oropouche Virus Amid Rising Health Concerns
Quest Diagnostics announces the introduction of a new diagnostic test for the Oropouche virus, a vector-borne disease gaining traction in South and Central America and the Caribbean. The launch, set for the end of July 2025, comes as public health officials report a rise in symptomatic cases among travelers returning from affected regions. Dr. Yuri Fesko, Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at Quest Diagnostics, highlights the company's proactive approach to ensuring the United States remains prepared for emerging infectious diseases. Although the immediate risk to the U.S. population is deemed low, the emergence of the Oropouche virus underscores the importance of vigilance and rapid response capabilities.
Oropouche virus is primarily transmitted through the bites of infected midges and mosquitoes, leading to symptoms that overlap with other arboviral diseases like Dengue, Zika, and chikungunya. In severe cases, the infection can result in neurological complications, including meningitis and encephalitis, making early detection critical for effective patient management. The newly developed test leverages advanced polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology for the early identification of the virus's RNA. Moreover, the inclusion of serology testing allows for the detection of antibodies, providing a comprehensive approach to diagnosing active and past infections. This innovation not only enhances diagnostic capabilities but also prepares healthcare providers to manage potential outbreaks more effectively.
Quest Diagnostics’ efforts are further supported by a series of contracts with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that were secured in September 2024. These contracts aim to strengthen laboratory readiness for emerging infectious diseases, including diagnostics for the Oropouche virus. By ensuring the availability of essential supplies and maintaining robust laboratory capabilities, Quest positions itself as a critical player in the public health landscape. This commitment to swift responses to health threats is exemplified by their previous success in launching the first commercially available diagnostic test for Avian Influenza A H5, highlighting their capability to address urgent health challenges as they arise.
In addition to the Oropouche virus test, Quest Diagnostics continues to focus on enhancing its diagnostic offerings across various infectious diseases. The company remains dedicated to investing in research and development to ensure timely and accurate testing solutions. As the landscape of infectious diseases evolves, Quest Diagnostics is well-prepared to adapt and respond to the needs of healthcare providers and patients alike, reinforcing its leadership position in diagnostic information services.