As the United States and global authorities put policies in place to curb the spread of the coronavirus epidemic, doctors seek to identify and treat those who have the COVID-19 virus. If you live in the Sugar Land area, you can now access a COVID-19 antibodies test at {Sub:BusinessName} The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that antibodies testing will play a critical role in determining the scope of infection in the U.S. and estimating the number of people who may still develop the virus. This lab test provides information about whether you have been exposed to the virus so that you can prevent the spread and seek appropriate treatment for symptoms that develop.
How Does the Test Work?
With this blood test, a lab technician will take a blood sample and send it for analysis. Unlike with tests designed to look for active COVID-19 infection, doctors examine the blood sample for antibodies that your body creates to fight COVID-19. IgM antibodies develop at the beginning of the infection, while IgG antibodies likely show up once the person has recovered.
The presence of these antibodies indicates that you have been exposed to the virus and can potentially pass it on to others. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, the antibodies appear in the blood about a week after an individual first starts experiencing coronavirus symptoms. The journal reports that it would be quite rare for a person with COVID-19 antibodies to become reinfected with the virus.
Possible results of this test may include:
- No exposure, which means the blood does not have protective antibodies and you have not come in contact with coronavirus
- Exposure, which means your body is in the process of creating antibodies to fight off coronavirus
- Exposed and recovering, which means antibodies are present in your blood and the body is currently combating COVID-19
Although the COVID-19 antibodies test was created by the CDC, it has not yet received a review by the Food and Drug Administration. However, the FDA and the National Cancer Institute have begun reviewing these screenings to determine their efficacy.
It’s important to note that individuals who have been in contact with the virus but receive a negative test result should seek follow-up with molecular diagnostic lab testing through their health care provider. Positive results can indicate exposure to either COVID-19 or another strain of coronavirus.
Who Should Be Tested?
You are a candidate for an antibodies test if:
- You believe you were exposed to COVID-19
- You had symptoms of COVID-19 but have been free of these symptoms for at
- least seven days before seeking a test
Employers can also seek testing for their workers to help determine if it is safe to continue business operations. According to a statement from Governor Greg Abbott, Texas businesses could begin reopening legally as soon as late April or early May. The antibodies tests provide information about whether your staff members can safely interact with customers and one another. For medical professionals and first responders, the antibodies test can play a crucial role in limiting the spread of the virus by individuals who are carrying COVID-19 without symptoms.
How Do I Get Started?
If you had coronavirus symptoms that resolved more than a week ago or did not have symptoms but think you were exposed to the virus, you could schedule a testing appointment with {Sub:BusinessName} today. After you visit our office to provide your blood sample, you will receive results in a secure email within 48 hours. Contact us today to learn more about the COVID-19 antibodies test, whether you need information about individual testing, or about safe on-site workplace testing for your employees.