First, a definition:
antigen
[ˈan(t)əjən]
NOUN
a toxin or other foreign substance which induces an immune response in the body, especially the production of antibodies.
The tests that we are doing to detect the presence of the virus are antigen tests. The problem is that it takes days to get back the test results(except for some that are done in hospitals). The news is there is a new test available which gives test results in minutes.
I had a patient call me and ask when I was going to have this test available. Answer: 2-3 months at best.
From: Enmon, Kelly
Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2020 10:46 AM
To: Nurse MT
Subject: RE: Abbot Labs COVID-19 test on ID-Now platform
Hello! I am very familiar with the following molecular device and the new test. The testing platform has been out for some time but the Covid-19 test is new and being authorized for use under the Emergency Authorization process. This test is molecular and it will first be available to all Hot Spot zones and then on allocation to existing customers of the device. Probably 2-3 months it will be available to new customers. I can have you added to the list once its available. Let me know for sure.
Many Thanks,
Kelly
Next, another definition:
antibody
[ˈan(t)əˌbädē]
NOUN
a blood protein produced in response to and counteracting a specific antigen. Antibodies combine chemically with substances which the body recognizes as alien, such as bacteria, viruses, and foreign substances in the blood.
Tests are being developed now which could detect antibodies to Covid-19 which could tell us who has had an infection and who might therefore be somewhat immune to the virus. The following article discusses the possible benefits of such tests as well as cautions about their limitations.
Here are some candidates:
https://news.yahoo.com/british-firm-says-antibody-test-123641940.html
https://www.biomedomics.com/products/infectious-disease/covid-19-rt/
In the meantime we are continuing to do the antigen swabs which have a turnaround time of 2-5 days.
Stay tuned.
