Antibody tests are available to some people across the UK as a way to see if you’ve for the antibodies for Coronavirus.
Antibody tests have been used previously in the UK during the Covid-19 pandemic.
However, this was in limited numbers, and now antibody tests will become widely available to the public.
Taking the test also helps NHS and research scientists learn more about the virus, who has had it, and how it is spread.
But what exactly is an antibody test, and how can you get one for free? Here is everything you need to know.
What is the antibody test?
The antibody test is different from the swab tests that test people if they’re positive or negative for the virus.
Instead, an antibody test is a blood test to check if someone has had Coronavirus before or if they have the antibodies to the virus after receiving the covid vaccination.
It can also check if people have created the antibodies to the virus or if these antibodies are from the vaccine.
However, some people who have had covid before or the vaccine still may not have the antibodies. If they don’t have these antibodies the test will not work.
The test checks for antibodies in the blood, when someone gets an infection the body makes antibodies that help fight the infection.
This is done through a prick on their fingertip using a device called a lancet, the blood is then squeezed into a tube and sent off.
How to get an antibody test?
The antibody tests are not available to everyone yet, but they are becoming more widely available. There are certain requirements to get one, these include:
- You’ve done a free PCR test for Covid-19 and had positive results
- You work in primary care, social care, or education
- You are taking part in research
The above can get the antibody tests for free, those not on the list cannot get an antibody test yet.
However, you can check via the government website by registering for an invite by answering a few questions to check if you’re eligible for an antibody test.
Once completion of these questions you will be informed if you can receive an antibody test and when it will be posted to you.
Those not on the list may be able to pay to take an antibody test at a private clinic.
Taking a test after a positive PCR test
Those who have had a positive PCR test for the virus can opt to take a free antibody test.
You will receive two antibody tests in the post to do at home, one to do within six days of your positive PCR result, and the other three weeks after your first antibody test.
Taking an antibody test after receiving a positive PCR test helps the NHS research to find out:
- How likely people are to get covid again
- How the body’s immune system responds to the virus or vaccine
