In response to inquiries about Covid-19 testing, we are sharing current recommendations and available options. Note that this article was written on May 6, 2020 and that given the rapid changes as we gather more information, this information may be quickly outdated. For most up to date information, refer to the CDC website, your local Health Department and your qualified healthcare provider.
DEFINITIONS:
Covid-19 is the illness caused by the strain of coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. We have now seen that people infected with this virus may have a range of symptoms. They may be completely asymptomatic, or have a mild to severe respiratory illness. The most common symptoms include fever, cough, difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle aches, sore throat, but can also include symptoms such as loss of taste or smell, gastrointestinal illness, or neurological symptoms.
WHAT TESTS ARE AVAILABLE FOR COVID-19?
There are tests that look at whether the actual virus, SARS-CoV-2 is present in the body (molecular or PCR testing), and there are tests that look at whether your body has mounted an immune response against the virus (antibody or serology testing).
WHAT IS ANTIBODY (SEROLOGY) TESTING?
to continue reading, click here.
If you have any questions, let us know and we are happy to answer them.
If you are a patient in our practice and request a test, we recommend that you book a 15-30 minute phone call or virtual visit to discuss your test results.
Warm regards,
Dr. Bojana Jankovic Weatherly
Disclaimer
Nothing stated or posted in this article is intended or should be taken to be the practice of medical or counseling care. The information made available in this article, including, but not limited to, interviews, text, graphics, images, links to other articles, websites, and other material contained in this article, is strictly for informational and entertainment purposes only. The information in this article is NOT (and should not be used as) a substitute for professional psychiatry, psychology, medical, nursing, or professional healthcare advice or services, nor is it designed to suggest any specific diagnosis or treatment. Please always seek medical advice from your physician or a qualified health care provider regarding any medical questions, conditions or treatment, before making any changes to your health care regimen, medications or lifestyle habits. None of the information in this article is a representation or warranty that any particular drug or treatment is safe, appropriate or effective for you, or that any particular healthcare provider is appropriate for you. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking help from a health care provider due to something you have read or seen in this article. Your reading/use of this article does not create in any way a physician-patient relationship, any sort of confidential, fiduciary or professional relationship, or any other special relationship that would give rise to any duties. This article does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, healthcare providers, procedures, or treatments, and if you rely on any of the information provided by this article, you do so solely at your own risk.
