This article details all of the need to know facts on the coronavirus antibody test. By first explaining the difference between an antibody test and a diagnostic test for Covid-19, the article goes on to explain what an antibody test is, and how it works. The article points out that even if you test positive for antibodies, it is simply too early to know if the presence of antibodies confers immunity. Nevertheless, widespread antibody testing will paint a clearer picture of the scope of the infection. People who have tested positive for antibodies may also be eligible to donate convalescent plasma, which has the potential to aid patients currently suffering from Covid-19. This donated plasma will allow others to “borrow” your antibodies to accelerate their recovery time.

What You Need to Know About the Covid-19 Antibody Test

Our ability to test for coronavirus antibodies is growing, but what we can do with that information is still limited. As states across the country weigh options for reopening after weeks of stay-at-home orders, antibody tests have emerged as a potential pathway on how - and when - to do it.