Exer Urgent Care today announced antibody testing for COVID-19 is available at all 16 clinic locations across Southern California. The FDA-authorized antibody test detects the presence of the virus through blood sample and identifies patients who have been exposed to or recovered from COVID-19.
The new test detects antibodies produced in the blood and indicates those who may have been exposed or recovered from the coronavirus. For the most effective results, the antibody testing must be conducted a minimum of 10 days after infection or exposure. This helps ensure sensitivity and produces more accurate results. Results are received within 24-48 hours after testing and Exer notifies patients apprising them of their results and recommends next steps.
Anyone who is interested in receiving an antibody test must receive a referral through Exer’s VirtualCare portal or at an Exer clinic. VirtualCare by Exer, an online extension of Exer’s urgent care service, provides real-time access to a medical provider via video chat and a quick diagnosis with treatment options. After a referral is received, patients will be directed to visit their local Exer clinic to proceed with antibody testing. Upon arrival, asymptomatic patients will be tested for immunoglobulin class G (IgG) testing. If the test is negative, it likely means the patient has been exposed to or recovered from the virus.
There are ongoing studies as to whether or not the long-term antibody (IgG) means immunity from COVID-19. Exer is constantly staying up-to-date with all relevant information to provide the maximum quality of care to their patients.
“With this new antibody testing, we have the ability to identify people who have been exposed to COVID-19 and may not have experienced associated symptoms,” said Dr. Brian Wilbur, Chief Medical Officer with Exer Urgent Care. “We’re taking the next steps in understanding this virus and providing our patients with the highest level of testing in efforts to keep them healthy and aware.”
For patients experiencing COVID-19 symptoms such as cough, runny nose, and shortness of breath, a nasal swab test is the current gold standard for diagnosis. Exer continues to follow its rigorous decontamination protocols to increase safeguards against COVID-19. Patients can rest assured Exer provides a safe place for your care and testing needs.
Exer Culver City is located at the intersection of Venice and Culver Boulevard, across from Media Park at 8985 Venice Blvd., Ste A3B, Los Angeles. They can be reached from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. at 424-502-1020
For more information about Exer Urgent Care visit www.ExerUrgentCare.com and follow @ExerUrgentCare on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook.