Mexico authorizes seven serology tests for COVID-19 antibodies

approved seven serology tests , also known as rapid diagnostic tests , to determine if a person is infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19 .

In a press release, the COFEPRIS revealed that through an evaluation protocol designed by the “Salvador Zubirán” National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition and TecSalud from the Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Studies (ITESM) to ensure the efficiency of the IgG and IgM serology tests for COVID-19.

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“This Federal Commission informs that from the tests evaluated to date, these are the seven first ones to be approved and that we will continue evaluating other serology tests that need authorization. Therefore, the lists of tests will be updated according to the progress on their evaluation and their approval will be informed in a timely manner,” it said.

That means that the tests detect the presence of IgG antibodies , which means that the subject has been exposed to the virus and has developed an immune response .

The tests also detect the presence of IgM antibodies that determine whether the subject has been exposed to the virus in the two week s prior to the simple. If both kinds of antibodies are detected, the patient is diagnosed with an acute case of the disease.

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The announcement took place after Mexico’s President López Obrador said on June 1 during his morning news conference that he would accept to analyze the application of rapid diagnostic tests for COVID-19 in Mexican states.

The President stressed that everything that helps fight the pandemic must be approved, including rapid diagnostic tests. After the announcement of the federal government to return to the new normal , experts have warned that before completely lifting the measures against COVID-19 it is necessary for health authorities to implement testing so as to avoid a major resurgence of the new disease.

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