CDC denies approval for high volume measles test, ‘prioritizing emerging technologies’
Summary
Several West Coast states asked the CDC to approve a new fast and large-scale measles test to better prepare for outbreaks. The CDC declined the request, saying it is focusing on newer testing technologies, while states want better tools to handle potential large measles outbreaks.Key Facts
- California, Washington, Hawaii, and Oregon jointly requested the CDC in May to validate a rapid, high-volume test for measles.
- After waiting two months, the CDC denied the request, citing other priorities.
- The states want the CDC to develop and publish testing protocols for measles and other important disease threats.
- Current measles tests are low-volume and slower, like individual PCR tests. PCR is a way to detect viruses from samples.
- During COVID-19, labs bought machines that can process hundreds of tests quickly, but no similar high-volume measles test is available.
- Texas labs made a high-throughput measles test but haven’t shared or published it widely.
- The CDC completed some incomplete studies on these rapid tests but hasn’t fully validated them.
- Health officials warn lack of fast, large-scale measles testing could slow outbreak response and harm patient care.
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