These days, we all have Coronavirus questions that need to be answered. We’ve provided some helpful COVID-19 antibody blood test questions and answers that might make life a little easier.

How does the COVID-19 antibody blood test work?

We will draw a sample of your blood and test it for the antibodies your body creates when fighting COVID-19. You should have your results in 3-7 days.

What does the COVID-19 antibody blood test tell me?

The COVID-19 antibody test determines if you had COVID-19.  It will not tell you if you currently have it. It will not tell if you are over it. We do offer a COVID-19 viral test or a rapid antigen test that will tell you if you currently have a COVID-19 viral infection.

If I had COVID-19 and I’m over the infection, does that mean I can’t get Coronavirus again? Is this a test for immunity?

The antibody test does not determine immunity. As the CDC states:

“Antibody or serology tests look for antibodies in your blood that fight the virus that causes COVID-19. Antibodies are proteins created by your immune system after you have been infected or have been vaccinated against an infection. They can help protect you from infection, or severe illness if you do get infected, for a period of time afterward. How long this protection lasts is different for each disease and each person.

Antibody tests should not be used to diagnose a current infection with the virus that causes COVID-19. An antibody test may not show if you have a current infection, because it can take 1 to 3 weeks after the infection for your body to make antibodies.”

How do I know if I currently HAVE Coronavirus OR if I am OVER it?

Different tests, the COVID19 viral test, and rapid antigen test use a swab. One of these tests is needed to tell you if you currently have it. We offer these tests as well.

What is the difference between this test (the COVID-19 blood antibody test), the COVID-19 viral test, and the rapid antigen test?

• This COVID-19 blood antibody test tells you if you HAD Coronavirus.
• The COVID-19 viral test or rapid antigen test tells you if you HAVE it and are currently infected with Coronavirus.
• This COVID-19 blood antibody test uses a small amount of blood we draw from your arm. This tests for your body’s immune response to the virus.

Where can I go to get the COVID antibody blood test?

You can go to any MainStreet Family Care or KidsStreet Urgent Care for testing.

Can you come out to my car to perform the COVID-19 antibody test?

No, this blood draw must be taken inside the clinic. You can learn more about our process for COVID testing here.

How soon can I get the results of my COVID-19 antibody blood test?

The test is a blood draw and test results are available in approximately 3 to 7 days.

Will my insurance cover this antibody test?

Congress directed insurance companies to cover COVID-19 testing. Our expectation is that insurance companies will comply. Please learn more about the costs of COVID testing here before visiting the clinic.

What if I don’t have insurance?

If you do not have insurance, you will pay a $129 simple self-pay price which covers your visit at MainStreet.  LabCorp will bill you directly for the antibody test.

What if I still have more questions?

We hope this answered all your antibody blood test questions. However, if you’re still looking for more information, you can head to our Q&A blog featuring our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Taylor.

If you feel you are experiencing an emergency, please dial 9-1-1 immediately.