Malaysia

Don’t take Covid-19 antibody test, Khairy advises public

International health agencies against move as no clinical guideline issued on matter

Updated 5 years ago · Published on 07 Aug 2021 1:05PM

Don’t take Covid-19 antibody test, Khairy advises public
There is no clinical guideline for a Covid-19 antibody test that produces accurate results, says Khairy Jamaluddin. – The Vibes file pic, August 7, 2021

KUALA LUMPUR – The public is advised against taking a Covid-19 antibody test as there is no clinical guideline issued on the matter, said Khairy Jamaluddin.

The National Covid-19 Immunisation Programme coordinating minister said based on the Disease Control and Prevention Centres, and Food and Drug Administration in the United States, as well as health agencies in other countries, the test is not recommended.

“There is no clinical guideline for an antibody test that produces accurate results,” he told a press conference today, saying that a statement on the matter will be issued by the Health Ministry soon.

He said a study on the Covid-19 vaccine’s effects on the immune system is being conducted by the Institute for Medical Research, and the outcome will be announced to the public.

On the increase in vaccination rate, Khairy said the focus is now on states that report a surge in Covid-19 cases.

As of August 1, 98% of the adult population in the Klang Valley have received at least one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine.

On the daily vaccination rate, Khairy said Malaysia tops the list worldwide, but added that with a limited vaccine supply, it is difficult to surpass the current administration rate of 400,000 to 500,000 doses a day.

“Not all of our vaccine supply has arrived. When we buy, the supply will arrive from week to week; a weekly delivery. So, it is very difficult to go beyond that.” – Bernama, August 7, 2021

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