Health Canada has authorized the first COVID-19 serological test for use in Canada.
Serological tests look for antibodies in the blood, and the testing will help scientists better understand whether those who have had COVID-19 and recovered are immune to the virus.
DiaSorin Liaison Canadian laboratories will use the tests.
"Further research will also help us fully understand the relationship between positive antibody tests and protection against re-infection," said Health Canada in a news release.
Blood samples from at least one million Canadians will be collected and tested for antibodies over the next two years as part of the federal government's response to the pandemic. Last month, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced a $1.1 billion strategy to develop a vaccine, support clinical trials, and expand testing for COVID-19.
So far, Health Canada has approved 18 diagnostic testing devices for use in Canada, including nucleic acid-based testing, which detects an active infection.
