Ministry of Health has advised the public against carrying out COVID-19 antibody tests.
In a circular, the health ministry revealed COVID-19 antibody test is not listed under the National Surveillance and Response System. The ministry said it has been identified some private companies are offering antibody tests and taking action over the results of the tests. The ministry noted conducting tests separate from the nation-wide system will cause doubts among the public. In addition, the ministry cautioned it could hinder the efforts of the authorities to identify positive cases and contact tracing.
Further, the health ministry revealed the test can only be carried out at facilities approved under the National Laboratory System and must be conducted by trained laboratory technicians. The ministry revealed any tests related to COVID-19 should be done under the National Surveillance and Response System. Under the system, only PCR tests are done to determine whether a person is infected with COVID-19.
The health ministry revealed the Health Protection Agency (HPA) will grant a special permission if it is required to conduct an antibody test.