The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) received five lakh antibody rapid test kits for the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) — the first of three

The kits will be used to study the virus’s spread in a given area, not to diagnose, These tests will be conducted periodically in hotspots to monitor if infections are going up or down.They are termed rapid as they yield results in hours, unlike other RT-PCR tests that take a couple of days.

The new kits check for antibodies — tools the immune system forms to fight a virus. These can be of two types: IgG and IgM.

The presence of IgM, which withers away in days, in a blood sample indicates a recent infection. The presence of IgG antibodies suggests a relatively older infection.The five lakh kiAntibodies usually develop in a body 14 days after the infection.ts include both types: those that can confirm the presence of IgG as well as IgM.

LEARNING WITH TIMES

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), New Delhi, the apex body in India for the formulation, coordination and promotion of biomedical research, is one of the oldest medical research bodies in the world

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus,are zoonotic, meaning they are transmitted between animals and people. The COVID-19 virus spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose when an infected person coughs or sneezes, so it’s important that you also practice respiratory etiquette (for example, by coughing into a flexed elbow). The best way to prevent and slow down transmission, Protect yourself and others from infection by washing your hands or using an alcohol based rub frequently and not touching your face.At this time, there are no specific vaccines or treatments for COVID-19.

What are the important steps you can do to prevent acquiring or spreading infection

1. Social distancing – Very important .
2.  Avoid contact with someone who shows symptoms of possible COVID-19 – anyone having a cold or cough or fever.
3. Avoid non-essential travel and use of public transport.
4. Avoid public places, crowds and large family get togethers. Keep in touch with friends and relatives using phone, internet, and social media.
5. Avoid routine visits to hospitals / Labs. for minor problems, contact hospital or HF clinic by phone or helpline number if possible. If you are regularly checking INR and adjusting blood thinning medicines, please contact the doctor over phone if possible and try and avoid a hospital as much as possible.                                                                      Hand hygiene
6.  Avoid handshakes and touching face with hands
7. Wash your hands with soap and water frequently – do this for at least 20-30 seconds and systematically to clean all parts of the hand
8. Alcohol based hand-sanitisers are also useful.
9. Avoid touching possibly contaminated areas/objects – Public toilet doors, door handles etc.