The role of serological [antibody] tests is limited at present. Once they have been assessed to be of sufficient sensitivity and specificity, these tests can be used to estimate the prevalence of immunity in the general population. However, it must be noted that based on current evidence uncertainty remains as to (i) whether antibodies fully protect from subsequent infection, (ii) whether the antibody response is durable and (iii) while the individual may have sufficient immunity to prevent development of disease, they may still spread infection until the virus is cleared. This limits the usefulness of antibody testing at an individual level.
In addition, significant questions remain as to the accuracy of these tests. The WHO to date has recommended that the use of point-of-care rapid antibody tests should only be used in research settings and not in any other setting, including clinical decision-making, until evidence supporting their use for specific indications is available.
More broadly in relation to testing, the HSE has developed guidance for the management of planned hospital admissions for non-COVID care which sets out advisory RT-PCR testing strategies for hospital patients. This guidance seeks to provide an advisory framework for mitigating risks associated with the delivery of non-COVID care while COVID-19 continues to be prevalent, and testing provides one of a number of measures that can be taken to reduce risk.
