Earlier this month, the Harrow Health Care Centre was delighted to announce it could offer Covid-19 antigen tests to private patients. We are now excited to also bring patients a Covid-19 antibody test.
But what exactly is the difference between a Covid-19 antigen and antibody test? And importantly, when should you get tested? In this blog, we’re answering the key questions you need to know.
What is a Covid-19 antibody test?
There are now two types of tests offered by Harrow Health Care Centre. The first is an antibody test. This is a test used to identify people who have been infected by the novel COVID 19 Coronavirus in the recent past, recovered from the illness and possibly become immune.
It works by detecting antibodies produced by the body in response to the infection caused by Covid-19.
When should I get a Covid-19 antibody test?
This type of test is specifically recommended for people who have had Covid-19 symptoms more than two weeks ago. You can have the sample self-collection kit posted out to you, or you can collect it from reception here at Harrow Health Care Centre. It is Public Health England (PHE) approved and validated and processed by our lab partner TDL.
If you would like to have confirmation of past infection with Covid-19 and wish to be tested, the price is £75 and includes a short discussion with a clinician to receive your results.
What is a Covid-19 antigen test?
The second test offered by Harrow Health Care Centre is an antigen test, which will identify if you currently have the coronavirus infection. It is Public Health England (PHE) validated and is the same test that the UK government is currently using for frontline workers.
Our tests are self- taken which means you undertake them from your own home. It involves taking a throat and nasal swab and posting the contents to the laboratory using a pre-paid envelope.
For more information, please contact a member of our team who will be happy to advise you.
When should I get a Covid-19 antigen test?
The key symptoms include:
- Fever
- A new, continuous cough
- Breathing difficulties
- Loss of smell and taste (added to symptoms list as of 18 May 2020)
If you are concerned you have COVID-19, or if you believe you have been recently exposed to it and wish to be tested, please click here. The price is £175 and includes a short consultation with a clinician to receive your results and discuss any implications or actions required.
