The Everett Clinic offers serology testing for SARS-CoV-2. This test is new, and can only be done under emergency use authorization. This test is specific for COVID-19. But there are many unanswered questions about what the test can tell us.

The test may not be able to answer questions about COVID-19 immunity. The World Health Organization states that "there is currently no evidence that people who have recovered from COVID-19 and have antibodies are protected from a second infection."

Talk to your doctor before asking for serology testing. You need to understand the pros and cons of the test.

Serologic testing can’t confirm that you have COVID-19. It can only confirm that you’ve been exposed to the virus. To confirm that you have COVID-19 or recently had it, you may want another test, like RT-PCR COVID-19 or the new Abbott POC test.

Please ask your health insurance if it covers serology testing.

The test does not:

• Test for immunity (able to fight off COVID-19 infection). Current IgG serology tests can't show that you have immunity to COVID-19. 
• Determine whether you're protected from getting COVID-19 again.
• Confirm that you have an active COVID-19 infection.
• Prove that someone can't spread COVID-19 to others.
• Replace standard infection control practices.

You still need to practice social distancing, cover your cough and wash your hands often.

You also need to stay away from people who have higher chances of becoming very sick or dying if they are exposed to COVID-19. (For example, people over 65, people with cancer, people with no immune system or weak immune systems.)

The test can:

• Confirm you were exposed to or infected by SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) more than two weeks in the past.
• Help us better understand how many people in our community have been exposed to COVID-19.
• Help public health leaders find ways to protect everyone.