COVID-19 antibody testing is now available in Atlanta
Healthcare Express in Atlanta has begun testing for COVID-19 antibodies.
Whereas diagnostic testing for those who are symptomatic of COVID-19 can indicate an active infection, the new serology blood test offered through HealthCARE Express identifies the presence of antibodies which can indicate that a person had an immune response to COVID-19, also known as coronavirus or SARS-CoV-2. A positive result of this antibody (IgG) test indicates that you may have had previous exposure to COVID-19 and your body has developed antibodies.
HealthCARE Express issued the following press release, “Did you self-quarantine and now wonder if it’s safe for you to return to work? Did you experience what you thought was a bad cold or thought you had flu but didn’t test positive? Have you wondered if it was COVID-19?
When our body fights an infection, it creates proteins, called antibodies, that help your immune system fight off the virus. Those antibodies remain after the infection is gone and can tell you exactly which infections your body has been fighting. Diagnostic testing for people experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 can only tell someone if they’re currently infected, but the new antibody tests offered at HealthCARE Express, however, reveals whether someone may have been infected in the past.
Antibody testing, also called serology testing, is used to identify the presence of an immune response to SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. It is a critical component to our nation’s response to the pandemic. These tests are only intended to detect IgG, IgA, and IgM antibodies related to the virus. It does not diagnose active or recent infection. For antibodies to be detected, you must be symptom-free (no fever or cough) for two weeks prior to testing. The test is a simple and easy blood test and results come back within 1-3 days. The antibody testing is most accurate for people who experienced symptoms of COVID-19 at least 14 days ago.”
The Food and Drug Administration has indicated that antibody testing does have the potential to identify those who have been exposed to the new coronavirus and can contribute their plasma as a treatment for those who are suffering serious illness from the disease.
Cass County Judge Becky Wilbanks stated the importance of serology testing.
“In the war against COVID-19, scientists believe that antibody testing is essential. Antibody tests can not only show how common COVID-19 is, it can also help with an experimental treatment for COVID-19 called convalescent plasma and who might qualify to donate. Antibody testing can identify if you had an infection in the past even if you had no symptoms of the illness”, Wilbanks said, “While COVID-19 is still being researched for a cure or vaccine, it is extremely important that all avenues be addressed for the safety of our community and the prosperity of our nation.”
The test offered through HealthCARE Express is covered by most insurance. Without insurance, the cost is $190.