Antibodies develop from immune system proteins traveling through our bodies in our blood. Their job is to identify viruses, bacteria and other alien substances, and render them ineffective. They remain in our circulation after exposure to these invasive antigens, and are better able to fight them afterwards. But should we use antibody tests as checks for current infections?
CDC Is Against Using Antibody Tests as Checks for Infections
Various administrations are, or are about to start using antibody tests, as checks for infections from the new coronavirus. Some hope to release healthcare workers from shelter sooner, as COVID-19 surges on. However, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) are generally against the idea for reasons we explore.
Antibody testing implies a negative result means the absence of a past or current infection. However, CDC’s concern is our bodies can take up to three weeks to produce antibodies after the disease strikes. They believe a viral test is the only reliable way to scan for the SARS-CoV-2 virus with an acceptable degree of certainty.
Are Antibody Tests an Option Where Viral Tests Are Delayed?
Centers for Disease Control concedes there may be circumstances when viral tests may be unavailable, or delayed. In that case, using antibody tests as checks for previous infections may add value, especially if the person has been in quarantine. However, the benefits are not open-ended because:
1… A positive result may refer to any past infection of the coronavirus family
2… Scientists are unsure of the quality and the duration of antibodies
3… Some people who develop COVID-19 may never develop these memories
A positive or a negative antibody test thus neither confirms, nor denies the subject is able, or unable to spread the virus. This then, is the basis for the CDC’s concerns.
Related
U.S. Clinical Trials of Monoclonal Antibodies
Antibodies Decay Quickly In Small Study
Preview Image: Nano Scale Battle Ground
