New coronavirus test with 99% accuracy approved for use in UK

A new test which will help identify those who have been infected with Covid-19 and have developed an immunity is to become available in the UK

The new antibody test will check whether someone has been infected and claims to be 99% accurate –  it’s now certified for use across Europe.

Testing antibodies in this way is crucial for the UK to exit lockdown, according to the company behind the test. 

Abbott, a global diagnostic specialist company based in Maidenhead, has announced it expects to ship millions of laboratory tests across Europe by the end of May. 

The diagnostic test has officially been given a CE Mark certification, meaning it complies with EU safety rules and can now be used in labs across the UK, the Independent reports. 

The test works by identifying the IgG protein the body produces when it has been infected by Covid-19.

The test will be crucial in identifying patients who have been infected but developed immunity as this will allow them to return to work. This could be imperative in particular to NHS and key workers across the country. 

It is expected that testing for infected and recovered patients will be a key part in the UK government’s measures to end the lockdown. 

Managing director of Abbott’s Northern Europe diagnostics division, Mike Clayton, said: “Abbott has been focused on bringing COVID-19 tests to market as quickly as possible to help address this pandemic.

“We are proud to be able to provide our antibody tests immediately as they will help understand who has had the virus, leading to greater confidence as we get back to living life. We are collaborating with the NHS, public health bodies and private laboratories across the UK to enable this test to be used here.”

The UK health secretary told the daily Downing Street press conference on April 28th that over 65s and their families will now be eligible for testing.

People who leave their homes for work who have symptoms, and care home residents and staff will also be eligible.