Optimal Specimens and Lesions for Mpox Diagnosis Using Real-Time PCR, South Korea

Emerging infectious diseases 2026 Open access

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Authors: Dong-Min Kim, Munawir Muhammad, Jin Won Kim, Choon-Mee Kim, Jun-Won Seo, Da Young Kim, Na Ra Yun, B. Lee, Minji Lee, Jeong Hoon Lee, Myung-Min Choi, Yoon‐Seok Chung
DOI: 10.3201/eid3203.250582
Cited by: 2
References: 14

Abstract

We analyzed 612 specimens from 135 patients with monkeypox virus clade IIb in South Korea by using real-time PCR. Crusted and anogenital skin lesions and rectal swab specimens demonstrated the highest positivity rates. Viral loads varied by lesion type, anatomic site, and time since symptom onset, supporting our specimen selection for clade IIb detection.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Poxvirus research and outbreaks Virology and Viral Diseases Bacillus and Francisella bacterial research

Publication details

Journal / source
Emerging infectious diseases
Publisher
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Volume
32
Issue
3
Pages
404–408
Publication date
1 March 2026
Language
EN