Nationwide COVID-19 FDA Authorized Antibody Testing
What is a COVID-19 antibody test?
The COVID-19 antibody test checks for a type of antibody called immunoglobulin G (IgG). If you have been exposed to COVID-19, your body will provide IgG antibodies as part of your immune’s response to the coronavirus. This test will not tell you if you are currently infected. If you think you have COVID-19, immediately contact your doctor or healthcare provider about getting a PCR test.
Who should get a COVID-19 antibody test?
You should get a COVID-19 antibody test if you:
- Have been diagnosed with COVID-19, it has been at least 10 days since your diagnosis and you are curious to know if you have the IgG antibodies.
- Have not had symptoms and have not knowingly been exposed to COVID-19 within the last 10 days, but are curious to know if you have the IgG antibodies.
- Have had or suspect you’ve had COVID-19, but have not experienced any new symptoms in the past 10 days. Symptoms for COVID-19 include cough, chills and repeated shaking with chills, difficulty breathing, headache, sore throat, muscle pain, or new loss of taste or smell.
- Have had or suspect you’ve had COVID-19, but have not experienced a fever in the past 3 days.
Who should not get a COVID-19 antibody test?
This test may NOT be right for you if you:
- Are feeling sick or have had a fever within the last 3 days.
- Are trying to diagnose COVID-19.
- Have been diagnosed with COVID-19 less than 10 days ago.
- Were directly exposed to COVID-19 in the past 14 days.
- Have a condition that weakens your immune system.
What will a COVID-19 antibody test tell me?
This test may help identify if you were exposed to the virus and, if so, whether or not your body has IgG antibodies against COVID-19. Although having antibodies usually gives immunity from further infection, there is not enough evidence at this time to suggest that people who have IgG 4 antibodies are protected against future COVID-19 infection. Results from this test also will not provide any information on whether you can spread the virus to others.
If you have questions about returning to work, contact your employer for guidance. Be sure to continue to follow federal, state, and local government guidance regarding social distancing and isolation.
Are there any limitations to COVID-19 antibody tests?
Getting an antibody test too soon after being infected may cause a false negative result. Additionally, some individuals who are infected with COVID-19 may not develop detectable levels of IgG antibodies, such as those with weakened immune systems due to a medical condition or certain medications.
This test may detect IgG antibodies from previous exposure to coronaviruses other than COVID-19, which can cause a false positive result.
What guidance does the FDA provide regarding COVID-19 antibody testing?
Antibody testing can play a critical role in the fight against COVID-19. It can help identify individuals who may have been exposed to COVID-19 and have developed an immune response. Using antibody tests and clinical follow-up can also provide more information on immunity against COVID-19 for research and medical developments for the virus.
Having antibodies usually gives immunity from further infection. However, there is not enough evidence at this time to suggest that people who have these antibodies are protected against future COVID-19 infection. Experience with other viruses suggests that individuals who have antibodies may be able to resume work and other daily activities in society, as long as they are recovered and not currently infected with the virus.
How is a COVID-19 antibody test performed?
This test is conducted by collecting a blood sample (such as from a finger prick or needle draw).
Who is PWNHealth?
PWNHealth is an independent healthcare provider network that provides oversight services to you in connection with the laboratory testing that you have requested. PWNHealth and its services are independent from the laboratory and company from whom you requested and registered for the test and their services.
What happens after the test?
After you receive your results, you will have an opportunity to have a telehealth consult with an independent licensed physician or other healthcare provider from PWNHealth, who can answer any questions you may have about your test results and help determine next steps.
How do I prepare for the test?
You do not need to do anything to prepare for the test. You do not need to fast or stop taking any medications before testing. Further instructions will be provided to you at the lab or in your test kit.
Get more answers to Frequently Asked Questions about COVID-19.
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Isolation / Quarantine Information
This information documentation is intended to provide guidance to individuals with a mild or suspected case of COVID-19 who do not need to be hospitalized and can receive care at home. Learn More
PWN Contact Information
Learn More About PWNHealth.
Fee Disclosure Information
There is PWN Service Fee of $10 (included in test price) that will be collected on behalf of PWNHealth for professional oversight of lab testing.
Where can I get more information about COVID-19?
If you feel like you are having a medical emergency, please call 9-1-1.
If you are experiencing severe trouble breathing, continuous pain or pressure in your chest, feeling confused or having difficulty waking up, blue-colored lips or face, or any other emergency signs or symptoms, please seek immediate medical care