COVID-19 Antibody Test Near You

COVID-19 Antibody Test - Overview

Push Health enables people to request an COVID-19 antibody test online using FDA-authorized antibody testing platforms. Through the Push Health network of affiliated medical providers, people can get a lab order to get tested at labs operated by Quest Diagnostics nationwide and get results - typically within 4 days - securely in their Push Health accounts.

What Is Coronavirus?

The term coronavirus is used to a class of viruses that are named based on the crown-like appearance of the virus particles as seen under a special type of microscope. Coronaviruses affect humans in addition to some types of animals. Many types of coronaviruses only cause mild illnesses while other types are quite dangerous. Today, when most people discuss coronavirus, they are referring to a novel strain of coronavirus named SARS-CoV-2 which is thought to have originated in Wuhan, China. This particular coronavirus is similar to one seen in bats.

COVID-19 Antibody Test - FAQ

Over time, some people will develop antibodies to coronavirus, usually as a consequence of having had a COVID-19 infection. This particular COVID-19 antibody test (coronavirus ELISA test) measures IgG antibody levels in the blood. When they develop, COVID-19 IgG antibodies can take 10-14 days to be detectable in the blood. At this time, the relationship between the presence of COVID-19 IgG antibodies and immunity to SARS-CoV-2 has not yet been firmly established.

FDA & COVID-19 Testing

With increasing interest in COVID-19 antibody testing, the FDA has been more vigilant in overseeing the antibody testing platforms that are on the market. In the absence of long-term data, the FDA has relied on Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) to approve lab testing platforms that have demonstrated satisfactory validity. Labs providing COVID-19 antibody testing in affiliation with Push Health utilize FDA-authorized testing platforms, including Abbott and EUROIMMUN equipment, for SARS-CoV-2-IgG testing. Abbott received FDA Emergency Use Authorization on April 26, 2020 for testing using its ARCHITECT i1000SR and i2000SR systems. EUROIMMUN received FDA Emergency Use Authorization on May 4, 2020

Why is FDA EUA Important?

COVID-19 antibody testing platforms that have received Emergency Use Authorization have been evaluated by the FDA. This certification indicates that the FDA has reviewed data submitted on these IgG testing platforms. COVID-19 antibody titer testing platforms are evaluated using statistical measures, including sensitivity and specificity. The FDA has listed performance characteristics of the COVID-19 serological testing platforms which are utilized by labs affiliated with Push Health.

COVID-19 Test Results

Here is some information from Quest Diagnostics about this particular COVID-19 blood test. Click the relevant link to see what sample test results look like (actual results will vary): Positive | Negative

"This test is intended for use as an aid in identifying individuals with an adaptive immune response to SARS-CoV-2, indicating recent or prior infection. Results are for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. IgG antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 are generally detectable in blood several days after initial infection, although the duration of time antibodies are present post-infection is not well characterized. At this time, it is unknown for how long antibodies persist following infection and if the presence of antibodies confers protective immunity. Individuals may have detectable virus by molecular testing present for several weeks following seroconversion. Negative results do not preclude acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. This test should not be used to diagnose acute SARS-CoV-2 infection. If acute infection is suspected, direct testing by molecular methods for SARS-CoV-2 is necessary. False positive results for the test may occur due to cross-reactivity from pre-existing antibodies or other possible causes."

COVID-19 - Transmission

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) appears to be highly infectious although what we know about the virus is still evolving. Currently, infections are thought to be spread via transmission of infected droplets during close contact. For this particular strain of coronavirus, transmission may even occur between people who are within 6 feet or more of someone who has an infection. Coronavirus can be transmitted in the sputum as well as liquids such as blood and serum.

Coronavirus Symptoms

Some people - particularly young, healthy individuals, may have no symptoms even though they are infected with coronavirus. When symptoms do occur, they are sometimes mild and similar to the common cold. Unfortunately, older people are much more susceptible to having severe symptoms of a COVID-19 infection which may include fever, cough and shortness of breath. Radiological studies such as chest radiography and CT may show airspace or ground glass opacities which are asymmetric and bilateral. Much is still being learned about this novel coronavirus infection and the symptoms it presents with.

Coronavirus - Treatment

As of this time, no approved coronavirus treatment is available today. Research is being put into investigating various drugs. Other treatments and a coronavirus vaccine are also being researched. Other COVID-19 treatments used include supportive care such as intravenous fluids and, when necessary, assisted ventilation.

COVID-19 Testing - Online

In most states, a lab order from a licensed medical provider is required to get coronavirus testing. Through Push Health, people can request the COVID-19 antibody test online and get tested at a local lab location. Coronavirus lab specimens will be processed by Quest Diagnostics and results will be available securely in one's Push Health account, typically within 4 business days.

COVID-19 - More Information

CDC Coronavirus Information