Health Emergency Operation Centre (HEOC) has decided to launch COVID-19 antibody tests in the Maldives in October, for purposes of research.
Speaking at the daily press briefing, Spokesperson of HEOC Dr. Fathimath Nazla Rafeeq revealed the centre is preparing to conduct antibody tests next month as part of a study aimed to identify the percentage of individuals exposed to COVID-19. She said the study proposal has been approved by the Health Research Committee of the Ministry of Health, adding administrative formalities are currently being carried out to conduct antibody tests.
In July, the health ministry advised against conducting antibody tests as the test is not listed under the National Surveillance and Response System and conducting tests separate from the nation-wide system will cause doubts among the public. The ministry stated the official method of testing for COVID-19 is PCR testing, which must be conducted in authorised laboratories by trained professionals.
PCR testing facilities are currently established in Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), Hulhumale’ Hospital, Addu Equatorial Hospital and Kulhudhuffushi Regional Hospital, as well as the forensic laboratory of Maldives Police Service (MPS). Furthermore, COVID-19 testing using GeneXpert cartridges have been made available in Ungoofaaru, Eydhafushi, Thinadhoo, Gan and Addu City.