Testing to see who has the COVID-19 has become one of the most crucial elements of slowing the global pandemic. And it may also hold the key to a return to normal. Individuals who have been asymptomatic for at least seven days, who want to know if they have been exposed to COVID-19 in the past without any symptoms can now take the COVID-19 Antibody Test.
What is the COVID-19 Antibody Test?
The COVID-19 Antibody Test is an effective way to evaluate immunity to COVID-19. It does NOT diagnose COVID-19. While the COVID-19 RNA Viral Test will determine the presence of the virus, the COVID-19 Antibody Test only detects the presence of viral exposure and also show immunity. As such, it can be an identifier test, as well as, a return to duty test to clear sick workers.
Who should be tested?
The COVID-19 Antibody Test should be performed on individuals with no symp- toms at all – conservatively, at least seven days since last symptom or never symp- tomatic. If the test is performed earlier than that, the clinical reliability may be compromised site.
Does this test for/diagnose COVID-19?
NO! This screens for antibodies, which are a specialized type of white blood cell your body produces in response to COVID-19.
Is this the test where they shove a swab up my nose?
No. This test is considered a point of care test (POCT) and is administered through a simple finger prick. This test uses a blood spot (from a finger prick) to confirm the presence of antibodies. Unlike the viral RNA swab test, which can take several days to confirm COVID-19 infection, your results will be ready in 10 to 20 minutes.
What’s the point of this test?
To see how many people have already had, and recovered from COVID-19. To make suggestions about behavior (eg. continue self-isolation or return to work or school).
Can this test be performed on symptomatic people?
Technically yes, but we DO NOT recommend it. In fact, the test information al- ludes to the idea that symptomatic individuals run the risk of test error. When per- formed in asymptomatic individuals, this test is 97-99% accurate.
What do the results tell me?
Positive or Negative IgG/IgM results can indicate recent or past infection and potential immunity, giving you information about how safe it is for you to return to work or school.
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ARCpoint MIAMI serves the needs of self-pay patients, patients with a high-de- ductible, and/or international patients in search of affordable access to quality healthcare in the form of diagnostic lab testing, primary care services, concierge medicine, DNA testing, and specialty type testing (food sensitivity, allergens, etc.) offering no wait times, same or next day appointments, and home visits. If you have any questions or comments, or to schedule your appointment for COVID-19 Anti- body Testing call 305-307-7070 or email rgimeno@arcpointlabs.com.
