Spike in demand for antibody test in Mangaluru

MANGALURU: Pathologists working in diagnostic laboratories in Mangaluru say they are seeing a significant rise in demand for antibody tests and queries on “tests to boost immunity”.

Dr Krishnaraj Upadhyaya, professor, pathology, Yenepoya Deemed to be University and proprietor of Nandikur Clinical Laboratory said: “We have had to explain to people who reached out to us that there are no tests to boost immunity. There were also people who wanted to know if there was a chance that they would contract Covid. However, there has certainly been a rise in demand for Covid antibody IGG tests. Many are keen on taking the test especially after receiving the vaccine.”

Dr HN Ravi Kumar, managing director, RV Metropolis Diagnostic and Health Care Centre Pvt Ltd said the approach of people has changed. “People are more aware of their health now. Many prefer to get tests done at their doorsteps,” he said.

KMC Hospital in Mangaluru said it has seen a rise in the number of people opting for antibody IGG tests. Between January and June, 662 people opted for the test. While 86 tests were conducted in January, 143 tests were conducted in June.

“A majority of those seeking the test are people who have recovered from Covid-19,” said Dr Basavaprabhu, consultant, internal medicine, KMC. “We have also had people who have recovered from Covid and would like to know if they should take the vaccine right away or delay it for some time.”