Recently a new trend has emerged. Some people take the initiative to do antibody tests, it is believed they can see an effect the COVID-19 vaccine. However, experts think that this test is unnecessary because it is useless. What, in fact, is an antibody test?
Clinical pathologist from Sebelas Maret University, Dr. Tonang Dwi Ardyanto, SpPK, PhD, FISQua explained, antibody test serves to detect seroconversion, which indicates that the body has been infected with the Corona virus.
Another function is to determine the potential for immunity to COVID-19 infection and see the body’s ability to neutralize the Corona virus. However for this purpose, the process is not as simple as one might imagine.
“The need or not (antibody test) depends on proper understanding. If you do not understand, you should not test, rather than being upset,” he explained when contacted by detik.com, Friday (21/5/2021).
He explained that there are various kinds of antibodies that can be formed after a person is infected with COVID-19 because there are various viral proteins. The main ones are N, S, E, and M. Apart from that, there may be other proteins, but their properties have not been studied much.
There are also antibodies that are unable to bind to viruses. For example, antibodies N because this part is in the virus and only works when the virus has entered the body’s cells.
“If the intention is to test whether you have ever been infected, we generally use a test that detects N antibodies. Likewise, for example, an antigen test generally detects N protein from a virus,” explained Dr. Tonang.
“If the intention is to test the neutralization potential, then the most appropriate test is PRNT (Plaque Reduction Neutralization Test). The point is that our serum is directly tested against live viruses, how much they are able to neutralize. using live viruses, “he continued.
According to him, until now there has been no standard standard for the minimum limit of protective antibodies. He suggested, if you want to test for antibodies, you must first understand their function.
“But if you do not understand, and are not mentally ready, then it is better not to check for antibodies. In order not to become confused yourself,” concluded Dr. Tonang.
Hmmm … more confused? Relax, no need to be dizzy. In fact, scientists have thought of everything when conducting clinical trials of the COVID-19 vaccine on thousands of volunteers in various countries. Vaccines that have been approved for use by the competent authorities are confirmed to have passed the test.
Watch Video “The Effective COVID-19 Vaccine Minimizes the Chances of Contracting COVID-19“
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