As you may be aware, there are two types of tests for COVID-
19. One type of test swabs the back of the nose, and looks for
active infection. Patients who test positive have an active
infection and need to quarantine for a defined period of time
to avoid infecting others. The other type of test aims to
identify those who were infected with COVID-19 sometime in
the past, have recovered, and have produced antibodies to
COVID-19.
Antibody testing for COVID-19 is accomplished via a blood
draw- a needle poke into a vein. This type of test can be
informative for those who think they may have had COVID-19
but were never tested, or those who wonder if they were
infected but did not show symptoms. The Neenah HWC is
now able to offer this test for $45, and results are usually
available within 48 hours. If you would like to have this test
performed, you can call the scheduling line to request an
appointment for this lab draw. Because the sample requires
processing, we cannot offer appointments as walk-in’s or
right before our closing time. (In addition, small children
whose parents wish them to be tested may be better served
at a clinic that routinely draws blood on pediatric patients.)
Antibody testing can verify the presence or absence of
antibodies against COVID-19. This determines whether you
have had COVID-19 in the past. It does not guarantee
immunity against future illness, and does not diagnose
current infection. The results of the test are reported to the
appropriate local health agency.
Patients who have antibodies to COVID-19 may wish to
donate their plasma. This is being studied as a treatment for
those who are seriously ill with COVID-19.
Please continue to follow social distancing guidelines to keep
you safe and to prevent spread of germs. If you are interested
in testing for COVID-19 antibodies or would like further
information, please call our scheduling line.
Comments