COVID EDUCATION:

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?
Primarily fever, cough, and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing but may include chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell, and overall flu-like symptoms.

What is difference between the viral and antibody SAR-CoV-2 test?

Viral / Molecular Test
Viral tests check samples from your respiratory system (such as swabs of the inside of the nose) to tell you if you currently have an infection with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

Antibody / Serology Test
Antibody tests are completed by obtaining one vial of blood sent to the laboratory to identify individual who have been exposed to the virus. This test has been authorized only for detecting the presence of antibodies against SAR-Co-V-2, not for any other viruses or pathogens

When should I get an antibody test?

• If you previously exhibited symptoms of COVID-19 but viral testing was not completed
• If you were previously diagnosed with COVID-19 and would like to test for antibodies produced by the virus

This test should be conducted 7-10 days after the first onset of symptoms. An antibody test does not diagnose a current infection or prevent future infections. Any individual with symptoms should immediately contact their healthcare provider about testing options.

How long do the antibodies stay in my system?
The answer to that question will take a lot of research and data collection. There is no way to give definitive answers at this time.

TEST SPECIFICS:

Who is the manufacturer of this antibody test?

Blood is sent to LabCorp and testing is completed using a test manufactured by Abbott Molecular Alinity m. Abbott is a global healthcare leader in infectious disease testing.

Is this test approved by the FDA?

On May 11, 2020, the U.S. FDA issued Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the company’s SARS-CoV-2 IgG lab-based serology blood test. This test has not been approved but has been authorized for use by the FDA. This test should not be used as the sole basis to diagnose or exclude SARS-CoV-2 infection or to inform infection status.

FDA-authorized Fact sheets for patients and providers can be accessed at the following link:

https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/emergency-situations-medical-devices/emergency-use-authorizations#covid19ivd

What antibodies are we testing for?

IgG

What are IgG antibodies and how do they relate to the virus?

IgG are the antibodies your body produces during the late stage infection and remain in your body long after the infection has subsided.

Does a positive antibody test mean I am immune?

Results from antibody testing should not be used as the solid basis to diagnose or exclude acute SAR-CoV-2 infection. A positive result does not guarantee immunity to future infection.If your test is positive, you should continue to follow public health recommendations on social and physical distancing, hand hygiene, environmental cleaning, staying home when ill and mask use.

What is the specificity and sensitivity of this test?

This test has a 99.9% specificity and 100% sensitivity rate.

WHF INFORMATION:

What is the price for the Antibody test?

In our Casper, Cheyenne, Laramie, Torrington & Scottsbluff offices, the cost is $75.
At all other WHF events, the price is $77.

What is the turnaround time from the lab?

3 - 5 Business Days

Is this billable through insurance, or self-pay only?

WHF only accepts self-payment for this test. Regulations regarding payment reimbursement continue to evolve. Please contact your insurance company directly for further information regarding your individual plan.

Does WHF offer viral testing?

WHF does offer COVID-19 Viral Testing. Please click here for more information.

Do I need a referral by a physician for antibody testing?

No. A referral is not required to complete antibody testing per the CDC.