Roche responds to WHO's declaration of a global health emergency due to the ongoing mpox outbreak

Core Viewpoint - Roche is actively supporting the global response to the mpox outbreak by providing access to high-quality PCR testing and enhancing laboratory testing capacity worldwide [1][2][3] Group 1: Company Initiatives - Roche has developed a suite of diagnostic tests for mpox, including the cobas MPXV test and LightMix® research use only kits, which detect the latest mpox virus variants [1][3] - The company is collaborating with governments and healthcare providers to improve mpox laboratory capacity globally, including training laboratories in Africa [2][3] - Roche's commitment to mpox response began in 2022, focusing on rapid and high-quality PCR testing to address public health challenges [3][4] Group 2: Product Details - The LightMix Modular Orthopox / Monkeypox Virus Kits were developed in May 2022 to detect Orthopoxviruses, including the mpox virus, using quantitative PCR technology [4][5] - The cobas MPXV test received Emergency Use Authorization from the FDA in November 2022 and is designed for high-throughput testing on cobas 6800/8800 Systems [6][7] Group 3: Background Information - Mpox, previously known as monkeypox, is a viral disease that can spread easily between people and from infected animals, with symptoms including fever, chills, and a painful rash [7] - Roche, founded in 1896, is a leading biotechnology company and global leader in in-vitro diagnostics, focusing on improving healthcare through innovative solutions [8][9]