12k samples collected for sero survey, testing to begin

According to a Chennai Corporation official, blood samples from 12,000 persons in the city have been taken during the survey, which was conducted across the city. “Samples were collected from various sections of the population. The samples have been sent to the National Institute for Research in Tuberculosis. The results will be released in a week,” the official said.

The civic body conducted the survey along with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) as the council had recommended the survey across the State.

Sero survey involves testing the blood samples of the subjects for antigens and antibodies developed against the virus. The survey result will help the civic body in assessing the exact number of the population exposed to the virus and develop immunity against it. Due to several asymptomatic cases, the government could not have the exact data about the prevalence of the virus.

Recently, the civic body conducted sero survey among its employees and found out that 15 to 20 per cent of the samples had antigens against the virus, suggesting exposure to the virus. Meanwhile, the civic body is working on a protocol to test private employees for antigens. “Once the protocol is ready, we will instruct private firms to test their employees,” the official said.