New Delhi, April 22 : The Union Health Ministry said a total of 19,984 people have been confirmed positive for COVID-19 across the country, and 3,870 people have been cured with a recovery rate of 19.36%. In the past twenty-four hours, 1,383 new cases have surfaced and 50 new deaths have been reported, said the ministry. According to the Union Health Ministry, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has forwarded a protocol for using rapid antibody test to all states, saying that antibody rapid tests are largely to be used as a tool for surveillance. "Globally also, the utility of this test is evolving and it is currently being used for detecting the formation of antibodies in individuals. These test results are also dependent on field conditions. As noted by ICMR, these tests cannot replace the RT-PCR test to diagnose COVID-19 cases. The ICMR has promised assistance to collect data from various States to assess the scope and extent of utility of these rapid antibody test in field conditions. The ICMR will keep advising the states on a regular basis", said the Health Ministry in a statement. The Centre will be conducting a telephonic survey where citizens will be contacted on their mobile phone from the number 1921. "This is a genuine survey. All citizens are requested to participate to help get proper feedback on the prevalence and distribution of COVID-19 symptoms", said a statement. Taking cognizance of attacks on doctors involved in the fight against coronavirus outbreak, the Cabinet has recommended an ordinance to ensure the safety of the doctors under the Epidemic Disease Act, 1897. The Home has Minister assured deoctors and health workers that government would leave no stone unturned in ensuring their well-being and security. /IANS