Frequently Asked Questions
Should I get the COVID-19 antibody test?
If you experienced COVID-19 symptoms more than 10 days ago you are eligible for COVID-19 antibody testing. The test will determine if you were exposed to COVID-19 and may indicate immunity.
How does the test work?
The test is a standard blood test to see if you have IgG antibodies. It is FDA sanctioned via FDA Policy for Diagnostic Tests for Coronavirus Disease-2019, and will be run using either Abbott or EUROIMMUN equipment. The test typically turns positive 14 days after symptoms begin.
Why get tested?
To know whether or not you personally have already been exposed to COVID-19 and have developed immunity. It is also extremely helpful for society to know who in the population has been infected and has developed immunity. This will potentially help guide policy decisions by knowing a more accurate number of cases that were mild or asymptomatic and what percent of society has developed immunity already.
How is that different than the nasal swab?
The nasal swab checks for an active infection by testing for the presence of the virus itself in your nose. The antibody testing is checking your blood to see if your immune system has been exposed to the virus previously and made (protective) antibodies against it.
What if my COVID-19 antibody test is positive?
A positive test means you have had the virus in the past, at least two weeks prior to the test and that your body has antibodies to the virus. We think it is likely that you are immune to the virus, but we don’t know this for sure. We also don’t know how long the antibodies last in your system.
What if my COVID-19 antibody test is negative?
A negative test means that antibodies were not detected in your system. Either you have never been infected, your infection was recent (in the last 14 days), or you may have had the infection but your immune system did not produce antibodies (due to weakened immunity or for other reasons).
What do I need to do before getting testing?
Assuming you meet the testing criteria you should book a virtual appointment with PlushCare. Our physicians will provide you with a required testing order. Following this, we recommend making an appointment at a Quest or LabCorp location. When you go to your appointment, you must be symptom free, you MUST wear a mask, and they will check your temperature to make sure you don’t have a fever. You will get your results in 3-4 business days.
How much does it cost?
Most medical insurances are covering the cost with a $0 copay. Make sure to provide Quest your insurance card and information when you go for your blood draw. This is very important. If you don’t have insurance, Quest may charge you up to $119, while there are $0 out-of-pocket or co-pay fees with LabCorp.
Does this mean I can ignore social distancing guidelines if I have antibodies?
NO! Social distancing is very important to protect everyone and you could still potentially transmit COVID-19 on your hands, clothes or secretions even if you are immune internally. How accurate is the testing? It is 100% sensitive and 99% specific meaning if you test positive for having the antibodies it is extremely likely that you do.
Does this mean I am immune to COVID-19?
Maybe. It means you were exposed and your body has made antibodies, which are thought to be protective against future infection. That said, much is still not known and re-infection or loss of immunity is always a possibility. How long does my immunity last? This is unknown for COVID-19. For other viruses it typically lasts months to years.
How do I get the results?
You will be able to get your results online directly at MyQuest or LabCorp Patient Portal within 3-5 business days of your test. One of our doctors will also be able to send you your results by secure message from within your wisp dashboard.