Understanding the COVID-19 Antibody Serology Test
What Is IgG Antibody Testing?
This test is a blood test designed to detect antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes the COVID-19 disease.
What We Learn from IgG Antibody Testing
- This test detects immunoglobulin (IgG) antibodies that develop in most patients within one to three weeks after symptoms of COVID-19 begin.
- If IgG antibodies are detected, you probably had COVID-19 recently and likely no longer have the disease.
Why Get Tested?
If you feel well, do not have current symptoms, and think you may have recovered from a COVID-19 infection, the IgG antibody test may tell you if you had the SARS-CoV-2 virus in the recent past.
How to Get Tested?
1. Make an Appointment at National Jewish Health
- Schedule a self-pay appointment online (no physician referral required)
- Get a physician referral if you want insurance to be billed
- No walk-up testing available
njhealth.or/coronavirus
2. What to Expect
- Testing is administered at our drive-through testing tent between 13th and 14th Avenue on Harrison Street in the National Jewish Health parking lot
- Wear a cloth mask
- Bring your appointment confirmation email, including the transaction details at the bottom, and a completed Consent to Treatment form
- Check-in any time during your testing window
- The test is a blood draw — no fasting required
3. Getting Your Results
Results are sent to you electronically through our patient portal. Results will be sent by mail only if specifically requested when you book the appointment. Look for an email with the subject of Activate Your Patient Account Now.
Understanding Your Results
- Pending: The lab is still processing your blood sample.
- Not Detected: IgG antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 were not found. Negative results may indicate the immune function was suppressed by other health issues or the antibody level is too low for this test to detect.
- Borderline: Some IgG antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 were detected, suggesting an early infection or prior infection to another coronavirus.
- Detected: IgG antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 were detected suggesting a past SARS-CoV-2 infection.
How to Stay Safe
- Wash hands frequently
- Wear facemask
- Keep physically distant
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