Why Is Getting A COVID Antibody Test Important?

We sat down with Kristi Loehr, PA of Medical Offices of Manhattan and discussed why it is important to get a COVID Antibody test.

 

What is the COVID Antibody test?

A COVID-19 antibody test is a blood test that detects antibodies to the virus that causes COVID-19. Antibodies are proteins created by the immune system after infection or vaccination.

 

What does the COVID Antibody test find out?

A COVID-19 antibody test is used to detect the presence of IgM and IgG antibodies in your blood. These are present in the body after infection or vaccination. COVID-19 antibody tests are not used to determine current infections with COVID-19.

 

Under what circumstances is it important to get a COVID Antibody test?

This test is useful for those who do not have symptoms but suspect that they were infected with COVID-19 in the past.

 

What do the results of a COVID Antibody test mean?

A positive test result shows that you have antibodies from an infection with the virus that causes COVID-19. This does not mean that you are currently infected, but that your body has created an immune response to the virus that causes COVID-19. It does not indicate immunity, as it is unclear at this time how long antibodies remain present in the blood.

A negative antibody test could mean that you have not had an infection with COVID-19. Negative tests can also be seen in those with a current or recent infection, as it typically takes 1-3 weeks for your body to produce antibodies. Regardless of test results, patients should continue to follow CDC guidelines to reduce the risk of infection, including social distancing and wearing masks.

 

You can book a COVID-19 Antibody Test using Labfinder. Simple booking and keep all of your results in one place. Book here.