Musa: Serological tests will help for the later period when a new wave of the virus is possible

SARAJEVO, (Patria) - Member of the Crisis Staff of the Federal Ministry of Health and head of the Epidemiology Service of the Institute for Public Health of the FBiH Sanjin Musa said that he appeals to citizens and points out the importance of adhering to prescribed measures.

"It is important that we adhere to these measures because COVID-19 is an extremely contagious disease and spreads quickly. You have seen in other countries as well, at the very beginning we have a small number of infected, then a sudden increase in illness. And that is exactly what we want to avoid. The only thing left for us is to keep people apart," said Musa.

Yesterday, a device for serological testing was installed at the Clinical Center of the University of Sarajevo. Speaking about serological tests, Musa said that in addition to molecular tests, we now have another type of testing that proves antibodies after exposure to the virus.

"They are an additional tool for proving the infected. After a few days, we prove antibodies and about 10 days later when we say that a person has recovered from the disease. These tests will help us show which people have recovered from COVID-19 without symptoms or with mild ones. This will help us for the later period, September and October, when a new wave of the virus may come," said Musa.

He emphasized that no one has any protection against this virus.

"When you have neither a vaccine nor a drug, the only salvation is social distancing," said Musa, adding that we will live with COVID for a long time.

We heard yesterday that we have such a number of tests that 10 percent of the population can be tested. Musa answered the question whether mass testing will follow and when a new batch of tests will be procured, because it is not only about testing but also retesting.

"Actually, I don't know which tests were specifically referred to, probably molecular ones, it is not the goal to test every resident. It is true that retesting is also being done, I say additional information on what is happening further will be provided by serological tests," said Musa.

He added that the situation is analyzed daily and based on field data, new recommendations are made.