Medics at a Cheshire clinic say they have launched a “highly reliable” Covid-19 antibody test.
The tests are being sold by the private clinic CLNQ for £125 each.
CLNQ is also selling PCR nose swab tests to look for active infection, priced at £175, though “special rates” are available for NHS staff.
Medics from the clinic say the coronavirus antibody blood test is 99 per cent accurate, FDA approved and CE marked.
The clinic arranges a doctor-led virtual consultation with patients who wish to purchase tests and arranges a finger-prick blood testing kit to be sent to their home.
The sample is then sent to an independent diagnostic laboratory in the UK for analysis, CLNQ says.
The antibody test is not yet available on the NHS, the clinic says.
The PCR nose swab tests for active infection by detecting RNA in the nose. It is currently offered on the NHS.
“The laboratory tests for IgG antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes Covid-19,” a CLNQ press release states.
“The test identifies the IgG antibody, which often appears after an infection has occurred and remains after the patient has recovered.
“The manufacturer has reported 100% sensitivity, meaning that all patients with the antibody tested positive.
“They also reported a specificity of 99.6%, which is the proportion of healthy people who truly did not have the disease. This is one of the most accurate test results on the market.”
Dr Kajal Babamiri, a GP and director at CLNQ says: “We are one of the first clinics in the UK to provide this Coronavirus screening package to our patients. We have waited a long time for a highly validated and reliable test to become available and now we can offer this to our patients.
“Our unique service gives patients contact with a doctor who will advise and also explain results when they are available.”
CLNQ, based in Knutsford, says it offers well-being, health and genetic screening, bio-identical hormones, vitamin replacement therapy, aesthetics, dermatology and surgical treatments.
