Antibody – or Serology Testing
All of the Urgent Team Family of Walk-in and Urgent Care Centers now offer antibody testing for COVID-19. This test is performed using Roche Elecsys® SARS-CoV-2 antibody test. An antibody is a protein produced by your body in response to an infection like SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, and may help in fighting the infection. The antibody test DOES NOT measure active infection for COVID-19, but rather your body’s response to an infection. At this time, much is unknown about immunity to COVID-19. A positive antibody test does not guarantee immunity to the COVID-19 coronavirus. Patients should continue to follow CDC guidelines such as handwashing, social distancing and using a mask even if an antibody test is positive.
PCR Testing
If you are currently experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, a nasal swab can be performed to indicate whether you are positive for the virus. The PCR (polymerise chain reaction) test can detect the genetic information of the virus, the RNA. This is present if the virus is in someone who is actively infected. The PCR test detects the presence of an antigen, rather than the presence of antibodies. By detecting viral RNA, which will be in the body before antibodies form or symptoms are present, the test can tell whether someone has the virus very early on.
For more information about COVID-19 testing, please visit this CDC website. Individuals who want either type of test, should call their local center. The PCR test will be taken inside the center or inside the patient’s car, depending on conditions. Those who want the antibody test should just walk in, no appointment needed. Any patient who comes to our center for either test, must be evaluated by a provider to determine if testing is necessary. At present, most insurance plans cover the cost of these tests and treatment. Please check with your insurance plan.
