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New Test for West Nile Virus Creates a Buzz |
July 13, 2003
The new test is called the West Nile Virus IgM Capture ELISA. The test works by detecting levels of a special antibody (IgM) in the blood. Antibodies are made by the immune system in response to germs such as bacteria and viruses. The FDA reported that the test correctly identified the IgM antibody in 90 to 99% of the WNV test cases. Because WVN is similar to other viruses, the new test is not specific for WVN. Therefore, other tests or a clinical examination of a patient is needed for a definite diagnosis. Nevertheless, this new test can be used to screen blood supplies before the blood is given to patients who need it. |
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