This Coronavirus antibody test is available at selected clinics throughout Spain. It will determine whether your body has produced an immune response to a previous Covid-19 infection. You can choose whether to test for IgG antibodies, IgM antibodies, or both as a combined IgG IgM antibody test.
What is the difference between IgM and IgG antibodies?
The body produces IgM antibodies first in response to an infection. However, these antibodies typically decline after the infection passes, so testing for IgM antibodies can indicate a recent or current infection with Covid-19.
On the other hand, IgG antibodies remain in the body for longer, providing an indication of the body’s long-term immune response to the virus.
Which samples are needed?
This test requires a blood sample. At your appointment, a trained clinician will collect a venous sample from your arm and send it to our laboratory for fast and accurate testing.
When can I have this Coronavirus antibody test?
To ensure the accuracy of the test, you should wait at least 14 days after your symptoms began before having this test.
How accurate is this Coronavirus antibody test?
At 15 days after a Covid-19 infection, the IgG antibody test has a sensitivity of 97.4% and a specificity of 98.5%, while the IgM antibody test has a sensitivity of 92.6% and a specificity of 99.3%.
How will I get my results?
Your Covid-19 antibody test results will be ready two working days after your sample’s arrival at our laboratory. As soon as your results are available, we will email you to let you know that they are ready to view online in your secure Patient Area. You can access this area using the log-in details you will receive at the time of booking. If you would like to be contacted by phone or SMS instead, please let our booking team know.
What if I test positive for Covid-19 antibodies?
A positive result indicates that you have had Coronavirus and your body has produced Covid-19 specific antibodies. The link between antibodies and immunity has not yet been confirmed. You may still be able to pass the virus to others or catch the virus again.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result indicates that Covid-19 specific antibodies were not detected. You may have tested negative due to one of the following:
- You have never had Covid-19.
- You had Covid-19 but your body did not produce specific antibodies to fight the infection. Instead, other innate immune system factors may have contributed towards your recovery.
- You had Covid-19 but any antibodies produced are no longer detectable.
- You are currently infected with Covid-19, but your body has not started to produce antibodies yet.
How do I book my test?
To arrange your appointment online, click Choose Your Clinic. Once you select your nearest clinic, choose your antibody test and follow the steps to complete your booking. Alternatively, you can book your appointment by phone. Call our friendly booking team on the number at the top of the page. Available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, our team will be more than happy to find an appointment at a time convenient for you.