Everyone's talking about this antibody test for #COVID19.

Here's why:
-It's important
-It differs from current testing
-Our immune systems are so cool!

A #COVID19Pandemic Thread https://www.cnn.com/2020/04/02/health/fda-coronavirus-antibody-test-authorization/index.html

Current #COVID19 test uses a nasopharyngeal swab that requires proper technique (no gag = not likely deep enough) & proper storing/transport.

Samples are run in a lab to look for pieces of genetic material specific to SARS-CoV-2.

Current swab for #COVID19

PROS: Can identify active infection

CONS: May have false negatives, takes hours to run in most labs, proper technique important, cannot identify someone who previously had infection but is not shedding virus

GREAT explanation: https://www.livescience.com/coronavirus-tests-available.html

Newer #COVID19 test is a blood test that measures antibodies specific to SARS-CoV-2.

PROS: Can identify someone:
Exposed and contagious (IgM/IgG)
Actively infected (IgM/IgG)
Who may be immune (IgM/IgG)

CONS: Test too early = false negative, blood sample needed

The principles surrounding the #COVID19 antibody test are the same used to check if someone's vaccines continue to offer immunity, i.e. checking MMR titers for employment, or to diagnose mononucleosis (EBV titers).

New use for old knowledge https://www.livescience.com/coronavirus-tests-available.html

Antibody tests for #COVID19 *could* help:

-Identify community spread
-See if someone is immune
-Help healthcare workers know if they need PPE
-Develop treatment w plasma infusions from those who are immune

VERY early...and we've already seen challenges with large scale testing

Hope this quick tutorial offers some insight.

If we've learned anything with this #COVID19Pandemic, news changes fast so please use vetted resources such as @CDCgov @WHO for current information.

I told you the immune system was cool