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Cepheid's Xpert® Hemorrhagic Fever Panel Test Approved by WHO

Overview
In a significant stride towards combating the ongoing Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Cepheid, a prominent player in molecular diagnostics, has received Emergency Use Listing (EUL) from the World Health Organization (WHO) for its Xpert Hemorrhagic Fever Panel test. This endorsement allows healthcare professionals to utilize Cepheid's innovative molecular testing technology to swiftly identify suspected Ebola cases, enabling critical outbreak control measures.

The Context of the Outbreak
The WHO declared the Bundibugyo (BDBV) Ebola outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on May 17, 2026, highlighting the urgent need for efficient diagnostic tools. Rapid and reliable diagnostics are crucial for managing such infectious diseases, preventing further transmission, and facilitating effective public health interventions.

Functionality of the Xpert Hemorrhagic Fever Panel Test
The Xpert Hemorrhagic Fever Panel test is designed to detect nucleic acids from several lethal viruses, including various strains of the Ebola virus, such as Zaire and Sudan, as well as the Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) virus, Lassa virus, and the Marburg virus. With a turnaround time of approximately one hour, this test stands out for its speed in delivering results, which is essential in outbreak situations where time is of the essence.

The assay operates on Cepheid's widely deployed GeneXpert Dx systems, providing an established infrastructure for rapid testing in regions most affected by the outbreak. With a significant presence across Africa, Cepheid is poised to extend its support to healthcare providers and public health authorities in the DRC, helping ensure timely access to crucial diagnostic information.

A Legacy of Support Against Ebola
Cepheid has demonstrated long-standing commitment to global health, evidenced by its support during the 2014-2016 West Africa Ebola outbreak. During that crisis, the Xpert® Ebola test received FDA Emergency Use Authorization, facilitating widespread access to rapid testing. Furthermore, in June 2026, Cepheid contributed an initial batch of Xpert Hemorrhagic Fever tests cleared by the U.S. Department of Defense to aid in the DRC response effort.

Collaboration with Global Health Entities
The WHO's EUL empowers Cepheid to enhance collaboration with public health partners, laboratories, and healthcare professionals to improve diagnostic accessibility in impacted communities. According to Connie Savor, Cepheid's Chief Medical Officer, fast and accurate diagnostics are essential for controlling outbreaks of infectious diseases like Ebola. This new listing underscores the company's dedication to partnering with global health organizations, ensuring that critical diagnostics are accessible when and where they are needed most.

The Future of Diagnostics
Looking ahead, Cepheid aims to expand its footprint, reinforcing its role in the global fight against infectious diseases and tailoring solutions that cater to the needs of various regions. Through an innovative approach and a commitment to excellence, Cepheid continues to shape the landscape of molecular diagnostics, with a vision for a healthier tomorrow that prioritizes rapid responses to public health emergencies.

For more information about Cepheid and its diagnostics solutions, please visit Cepheid's official website.

Conclusion
Cepheid's recent achievement in obtaining EUL from the WHO for its Hemorrhagic Fever Panel fortifies the ongoing efforts to tackle the Ebola outbreak in the DRC. With this rapid testing solution, the healthcare community can enhance their responses, protect populations, and strive towards eradicating the threat posed by infectious diseases.