COVID-19: BJP leader seeks serological testing in Goa

Panaji: BJP leader Utpal Parrikar has demanded serological testing of people in Goa to remove “mass hysteria” prevailing in the state about COVID-19.

The son of former Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar on Thursday said such a testing will help in knowing the real picture about the coronavirus situation in Goa, which has recorded more than 400 cases so far.

Utpal Parrikar tweeted, Per ICMR 15-30 per cent people in various zones have developed antibodies and recovered. So the case of fatality is low.

“We need serological testing in Goa to understand real picture and remove this mass hysteria prevalent in Goa due to ever-fleeting state SOPs and arbitrary decisions by local bodies.

The state, which was declared a green zone on May 3, has seen a spike in the coronavirus cases.

Serology (antibody) tests are largely used for surveillance among the community. They can be used on persons who have already been tested positive for the virus or even those who are asymptomatic, and can reveal insights on immunity against the coronavirus.