(Emory University via SWNS) By Stephen Beech via SWNS A new nasal swab test can accurately predict the severity of COVID-19 infections . It provides a more precise prediction than currently available of how serious the case is by focusing on autoantibodies in the nasal cavity. The test will lead to more personalized treatment plans, say American scientists.
And it could be adapted to test for other viruses, including flu. Several COVID-19 symptoms exist, ranging from mild to severe, and while current strains of the virus generally cause milder symptoms, people with pre-existing medical conditions are still at much greater risk of severe illness. Scientists say the new test could provide critical information to allow immediate treatment options for high-risk patients.
Researchers from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, tracked antibodies in both the blood and nasal airways of 125 patients with varying levels of COVID-19 infection for almost two years. They found that more than 70% of patients with mild or moderate COVID-19 developed certain autoantibodies – generally an indication of disease – in the nose that was surprisingly linked to fewer symptoms, better antiviral immunity, and faster recovery. The findings, published in the journal Science Translational Medicine, suggest that the presence of autoantibodies in the nose can play a "protective" role and help regulate the immune system to prevent excessive inflammation and fight off the virus more effectively.
(Emory .