Information on how to get antibody testing in Western New York and the Finger Lakes region, including the cost, where to get tested and how to interpret your results.
What are antibodies?
An antibody is a blood protein produced in the body that combines chemically with bacteria, viruses, and other foreign substances. Antibodies help to fight infections and also indicate evidence of past infections.
Why not test everyone for COVID-19 IgG antibody?
It is not known if evidence of antibodies means you are immune (protected) from a second infection (re-infection).
Can antibodies be measured for COVID-19?
Rochester Regional Health Laboratories (RRHL) are able to perform high-quality, validated assays for COVID-19; the full name for this test is “SARS-CoV-2 AB.” Appropriately validated serology tests for antibodies can be used to show evidence of prior infection- a recent infection or an infection in the past.
Where can I get tested?
For a listing of RRH Laboratories that offer COVID-19 antibody testing, see below. Testing is also offered through Rochester Regional Health Immediate Cares - but only as part of an urgent care visit.
The current cost for COVID-19 antibody testing is $100, payable prior to testing. RRH will not bill your insurance for this testing. If you believe your insurance may cover some or all of this testing cost, please contact your insurance carrier to determine if you may be eligible for full or partial reimbursement.
If I am tested, what do my antibody test results mean?
Review your test results with your provider - sometimes additional testing may be needed. If your test is “positive”– it means there are antibodies; if your test is “negative”– it means antibodies are not found. Not everyone who has been infected with COVID-19 will develop an antibody response, and it is currently not known how long antibodies may persist following infection. A “positive” antibody test result does not guarantee that you cannot get infected again- you must still continue masking, social distancing and practicing good hand hygiene- otherwise, you could get sick again or infect others.
Antibody Testing Locations
Below is a listing of Rochester Regional Health Laboratories locations currently offering COVID-19 antibody testing. Testing is also offered through Rochester Regional Health Immediate Cares, but only as part of an urgent care visit.
RRH CROSSKEYS
400 Crosskeys Office Park
Suite 425
Rochester, NY 14617
Rochester Regional Health Laboratories are nationally and regionally recognized and accredited for a superior record for quality, customer service and rapid turnaround of diagnostic results by the College of American Pathologists, New York State Department of Health, Joint Commission on Accreditation on Healthcare Organizations, and the American Association of Blood Banks.
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Your Guide to COVID-19
Stay up-to-date on the new coronavirus disease (COVID-19) with information from Rochester Regional Health. Our number one priority is to help protect the community, patients, and employees of the Finger Lakes and Western New York.