As the name suggests, the COVID antibodies test screens your body for antibodies to determine whether you have had a COVID-19 infection. In medical terms, it is known as a serology test. This is a comprehensive assessment of the infection and your body’s immune response to it. The team at GatherWell is well-equipped to handle antibody testing in Otsego.
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What is the procedure like?
COVID antibody testing is a simple procedure that takes only a few minutes. It is a walk-in procedure and may not require booking or an appointment. However, you can discuss with your doctor if you have any concerns.
On the day of the test, a lab technician pricks your finger with a needle. Then, a swab is placed on the finger to collect blood for testing. After that, you can sit in the waiting room as the doctor conducts the antibody test.
There are two types of antibodies that the specialist seeks to find out. The first is the IgM antibodies for early infection, while the second is the IgG antibodies for later infections. The IgM antibodies are common in most people and generally show-up two weeks after having had the COVID-19 symptoms.
Some people have mild symptoms of COVID-19 and may recover without even knowing they were infected, though the antibodies will remain in the blood even after the infection has cleared. Thus, the specialist conducts an IgG test to establish if you have had a COVID-19 infection in the past. This test will look for signs of the Coronavirus after an infection, whether or not you have recovered.
Why is the IgM antibodies test necessary?
An antibody test for COVID-19 is essential since you may have had the infection without knowing. The test enables health experts to understand the virus better to help them understand why some people become more sick than others.
The IgM antibodies test also offers an insight into whether your contacts have been infected with the virus, although you may have been asymptomatic. This scientific information is essential, as the experts can gain further understanding about the immunity response of different individuals.
Last, if you have had an infection without knowing, you can donate plasma for research and treatment of those who are infected.
Who is the right candidate for the SARS-CoV-2 antibodies test?
If you have had contact with someone with COVID-19, then you are the right candidate for the IgM antibodies test. Whereas, if you had a positive COVID-19 test and recovered, you can receive the IgG antibodies test.
How much time does the IgM antibodies test take?
Where the IgM antibodies test can only be conducted in a hospital environment, you will be unable to self-administer it at home. Fortunately, it only takes a few minutes since it does not require prior booking. Currently, more medical facilities are conducting these tests to aid in research.
What does a positive IgM test mean?
If your test results are positive, it means you were infected with the Coronavirus and have immunity. The specialist will advise you to continue adhering to the safety guidelines, such as washing hands and wearing a facial mask, however.
Side effects and complications
There are no side effects of taking the IgM antibodies test. It is a walk-in test and you will be able to return home the same day.
If you would like a COVID-19 antibodies test, you can walk-in to any of the GatherWell locations to have yours performed today.