Part 8/16:
Singapore’s response showcased innovative use of technology and rapid scientific development. Investigators employed CCTV footage to identify individuals in public spaces and determine their movements. For instance, one case involved a woman in a floral dress whose path through malls was reconstructed by cross-referencing CCTV footage and local shop inquiries.
A critical breakthrough was achieved through the development of a novel serology (antibody) test, spearheaded by Singapore’s research teams. Unlike PCR tests, which detect active infection via genetic material, serology tests identify antibodies in the blood indicating past infection. This proved invaluable for cases where the virus was no longer detectable by PCR because the individual had already recovered.