UK To Now Offer Antibody Tests To Know Immune Responses Of Covid Variants

Aside from understanding the antibody protection in people, it is also expected to give information about any groups of people who did not develop an immune response after getting coronavirus.

Representational Image (Source: PTI)

New Delhi: In order to understand how much natural protection people have after getting infected with Covid-19 the UK has launched antibody tests. According to a BBC report, the finger-prick tests are part of a government scheme rolled out for the first time and will offer tests to thousands of adults every day.

This is expected to help the UK gain insight into the impact of the vaccination programme and immune responses to different variants.

The report stated that from August 24, 2021, those above the age of 18 will be able to opt for the antibody tests while taking a PCR test. About 8000 of those who test positive will be sent two home antibody tests.

The first test must be taken immediately after testing positive for Covid-19 before the body generates a detectable antibody response to the infection. The second test must be taken after 28 days to measure antibodies generated in response to the infection, the report said.

Health Secretary Sajid Javid said that it would be quick and easy to take part. He added, that the tests will be built on the "massive wall of defence" that was the vaccination programme and getting involved would help "strengthen our understanding of Covid-19 as we cautiously return to a more normal life".

Aside from understanding the antibody protection in people, it is also expected to give information about any groups of people who did not develop an immune response after getting coronavirus, that report stated. 

"It is vital that we have the fullest understanding possible of vaccine effectiveness and the immune response of the broader population," Humza Yousaf, Scotland's Health Secretary was quoted saying.

"The rollout of this antibody testing study will help us achieve this and could play an important role in the battle to keep the virus under control," Yousaf said.