WHEN IS ANTI-BODY TESTING DONE:

Antibody testing, also known as serology testing, is usually done after full recovery from COVID-19. Eligibility may vary, depending on the availability of tests. A health care professional takes a blood sample by drawing blood from a vein in the arm. Then the sample is tested to determine whether you have developed antibodies against the virus. The immune system produces these antibodies — proteins that are critical for fighting and clearing out the virus.

If test results show that you have antibodies, it indicates that you were likely infected with COVID-19 sometime in the past. It may also mean that you have some immunity. There is, however, a lack of evidence on whether having antibodies means you are protected against reinfection with COVID-19. The level of immunity and how long immunity lasts are not yet known. Ongoing studies will eventually reveal more data on this. You must continue to apply basic non-pharmaceutical interventions (hand hygiene, social distancing and wearing of masks).