Antibody Testing Shows No Evidence of Immunity.

 

In guidance published Friday by the WHO on adjusting public health and social measures for the next phase of the COVID-19 response, the organization stated:

 

“Some governments have suggested that the detection of antibodies to the SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, could serve as the basis for an ‘immunity passport’ or ‘risk-free certificate’ that would enable individuals to travel or to return to work assuming that they are protected against re-infection. There is currently no evidence that people who have recovered from COVID-19 and have antibodies are protected from a second infection.”

 

In agreement with the WHO’s statement that those “who assume that they are immune to a second infection because they have received a positive test result may ignore public health advice,” as this could increase the risks of continued transmission. To that end, TAG does not recommend antibody testing of workers. Because there is no scientific evidence showing antibody-related immunity, there would be no relevant action to take from the antibody-specific tests and their results.

 

Ultimately, TAG recommends caution when deciding on implementing worker testing. Do not test unless you know what the results mean and what you plan to do with said results. As usual, TAG will continue to stay updated on the science and update its recommendations, as things evolve.