Immunity to the novel coronavirus is building up very slowly in the Czech Republic, with likely no more than 4-5 percent of the population covered, the Health Ministry said on Wednesday. The statement came after mass testing for antibodies started last month.

The preliminary results from the study found immunity levels were likely lower in the two biggest cities of Prague and Brno. Overall, it found 107 positive cases after testing 26,549, making it one of the largest studies in Europe.

The country of 10.7 million was one of the swiftest in Europe to impose curbs on travel and border crossings and shut most shops and restaurants in March. It is now reopening in phases and Health Minister Adam Vojtech said the study would not change plans. The study estimated the number of people infected by the virus but not showing symptoms could range from 27-38 percent.

There were 7,899 cases of the virus, in the country. More than half have recovered and 258 have died, Reuters said. The number of active cases has declined to 3,624 reported on Wednesday morning. New infections have been below 100 all but one day since April 22.

Source: RT