AFC Urgent Care Malden is now offering coronavirus antibody testing via blood draw. Known as SARS-CoV-2 AB, this type of test can detect a past infection with a coronavirus through the presence of antibodies. Results are typically available within 48 hours.
When can I be tested for antibodies?
Anyone who has been without symptoms for at least 14 days prior to visiting our center can be tested for COVID-19 antibodies. Symptoms included cough, fever and shortness of breath. Antibody testing is performed on a walk-in basis.
What is the difference between diagnostic testing and antibody testing?
Antibody testing is performed through a blood draw, detecting antibodies which can indicate past infection with a coronavirus as long as the patient is asymptomatic. Diagnostic tests are performed using a nasal swab and can detect the active COVID-19 virus.
What do the results of my antibody test mean?
A positive antibody test is an indication of exposure to coronavirus. However, research is still being conducted to determine if the presence of antibodies indicate an immunity or protection against further infection of COVID-19. A negative antibody test indicates that you have not been exposed to coronavirus, or you have been exposed recently enough to not have developed an immune response at the time.
Regardless of your results, it is critical to make sure you continue to follow local health and safety guidelines, including social distancing, wearing a mask in public and washing your hands frequently throughout the day. For more information on how antibody testing is conducted and how results are being interpreted, please check the CDC website for the latest updates.
