Health
Healthspring to Test for Antibodies for COVID-19
Bangalore, India, 2nd July 2020: Healthspring, leaders in providing primary healthcare has received approval from the designated authorities to start testing for detecting Coronavirus Antibodies. These tests, suited for high-risk groups like immuno-compromised patients, individuals in containment zone, health care workers, amongst others from the essential services group; has the specificity greater than 99.8%, and sensitivity is of 100% (14 Days post-PCR confirmation).
The test is a uniquely designed, high-quality serology test for the identification of antibodies developed in a person’s body. These antibodies indicate that the individuals may have had COVID-19 in the past and have developed antibodies that protect them from reinfection.
Commenting on the development, Mr. Kaushik Sen, Co-founder & CEO, Healthspring, said, “We are delighted to announce that our clinics will now be conducting the antibody tests post the requisite approvals received from the authorities. These rapid antibody testing kits are of world-class standards. They are already been deployed in countries like UK, Singapore, etc. This is a revolutionary step taken by the authorities as the results, along with other information, will help the health care provider make an informed recommendation about patient care. This lab-based testing process is being conducted only through NABL certified labs like Healthspring. It will be beneficial to those individuals who have been exposed to the virus or if they live in or have recently traveled to a place where transmission of COVID-19 is known to occur.”
The tests will be available at 15 clinics of Healthspring in Mumbai and Pune. Each test will charge at INR 1250*.
The kit has been approved by ICMR for testing seroprevalence studies in India. The test is also CE-IVD certified and has received USFDA emergency use authorization (EUA). There is no cross-reactivity to the common cold, HIV, and other coronaviruses.
*For in-center sample collections. Additional charges are applicable for onsite / home sample collections.
