We’ve all become familiar with testing for Covid.  Whether that’s through the lateral flow tests which we have been able to get from our Pharmacies, the PCR tests we might take if we think we have Covid, and the tests needed for travel which are available from Rapid Health Test.

However, there’s another test which most of us haven’t had and perhaps aren’t aware of.  This is the test for Antibodies after we may have had Covid.

What is an Antibody?

When a foreign object or a virus enters our body it contains an Antigen.  Our body’s natural immune response is to find the ‘enemy’ and destroy it.  Our clever immune systems allow White Blood Cells send out ‘search and destroy’ Y shaped proteins called Antibodies who look for the antigens and ‘bind’ to them.  This ‘binding’ leads to a process in which the original virus or parasite can be destroyed.

Therefore, if we have had a virus such as Covid, we will have Antibodies present in our blood.

How does the Antibody Test work?

Unlike PCR or Lateral Flow Test, an Antibody Test needs a small blood sample.  This can be obtained by a finger prick in our Truro or Plymouth Clinic.  Your sample is then processed to see whether Covid Antibodies are present in your blood.

What can your Antibody Test tell you?

• Your blood test will be able to tell you whether you have Covid Antibodies in your blood within about 60 minutes. 
• This will tell you whether you have had Covid in the past.  
• It can also tell you if your vaccine has been successful, as antibodies will have been produced as a reaction to your injection.

What can’t your Antibody Test tell you?

• Your Antibody Test won’t be able to tell you when you had Covid or how long the Antibodies in your system will last.
• You also won’t be able to use the results of the Antibody Test for travel.
• You should also continue to follow Government guidelines regarding contact with other people.
• How long do Antibodies last in my blood?

We are still learning about Covid and it’s likely that antibodies don’t last forever.  However, in one paper in the British Medical Journal, antibodies were found ‘five to seven months’ after Covid infection.  A strong Antibody response has also been produced in all of the vaccines approved so far.

If you are interested in having an Antibody Test, you can book an appointment here.  Your results will be ready in 60 minutes.