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NOTE: The following information was published May 22, 2020. For current COVID-19 information, visit LVHN.org/COVID-19.
HNL Lab Medicine is now offering antibody blood tests for the new coronavirus (COVID-19, also known as SARS-CoV-2). If you think you may have had COVID-19 or if you had known exposure to the coronavirus, but never received COVID-19 testing, the antibody test may provide answers.
What is a COVID-19 antibody test?
The body produces antibodies as part of an immune response to viruses. Once someone becomes exposed to the virus that causes COVID-19, they may become sick. This antibody test (sometimes referred to as a serology test) checks for the presence of antibodies that the body would have created in response to the coronavirus. It usually takes around 10 to 18 days to produce enough antibodies to be detected in the blood.
Please note: This test is different from the COVID-19 PCR swab test, which indicates if you have an active infection and that the virus is present. If you think you may have COVID-19, visit LVHN.org/COVID19 to learn about screenings, testing and care.
If I test positive for COVID-19 antibodies, does that mean I won’t get sick again?
At this time, it is unknown what level of antibodies are needed to protect you from becoming reinfected with the coronavirus or how long that protection will last. With most viruses the presence of antibodies provides a level of immunity to that virus. It’s also important to remember that even if you have antibodies, you still have the potential to be an asymptomatic carrier of the virus and spread it to others.
What does a negative COVID-19 test result mean?
A negative test result means that the antibodies to the virus that causes COVID-19 were not found in your body.
A false-negative result may occur if your blood is drawn before it has produced enough IgG antibodies for the test to detect. This is why antibody testing is not recommended until at least 14 days after your symptoms have resolved.
Should I get a COVID-19 antibody test?
The test results, along with other information, may help your health care provider make informed recommendations about your care. It’s important to discuss the results with your provider to receive guidance on what your test results mean for your specific health needs. Test results may also provide you with peace of mind. Each person’s situation is unique so the answer to this question may vary.
Are all COVID-19 antibody tests the same?
No, there are multiple antibody tests available for COVID-19 with variable performance, so it’s important to have your test performed at a reputable laboratory. HNL Lab Medicine has been a trusted resource in our community for more than 21 years. They are utilizing an FDA-authorized antibody test, which has a reported specificity of 99.3%.
How can I receive COVID-19 antibody testing?
HNL Lab Medicine offers a COVID-19 antibody test that a person can request through HNL Lab Tests Direct. Register online at HNL Lab Tests Direct and order (and pay for) your COVID-19 antibody test. You will then go to an HNL Lab Medicine Patient Center location, no appointment needed.
Find all available locations at HNL.com/locations. You can also call HNL Lab Medicine Customer Care at 877-402-4221. For more information about COVID-19 antibody tests, visit the HNL Lab Medicine website.