For those wondering if they were exposed to the coronavirus (COVID-19) can now buy an antibody test online.
Quest Diagnostics, a private lab based in New Jersey, announced the option Tuesday.
Quest has locations in Richmond, Newport News, Hampton, Norfolk and Virginia Beach.
The Hampton location, 2040 Coliseum Drive, Suite 13 and one of the Virginia Beach locations, 4876 Baxter Road is currently closed through May 30.
Newport News
- Quest Diagnostics Newport News, 11717 Jefferson Ave.
Norfolk/Virginia Beach
- Quest Diagnostics Norfolk, 885 Kempsville Circle Suite 210
- Quest Diagnostics Virginia Beach, 2021 Lynnhaven Parkway
Richmond
- Quest Diagnostics Richmond, 8002 Discovery Drive, Suite 103
- Quest Diagnostics Richmond, 8921 Three Chopt Road, Suite 104
The COVID-19 Immune Response uses a blood sample to determine if the body has developed an immune response or antibodies, to the coronavirus.
Each antibody test costs $119. You can fill out the online request form here.
“While the science on COVID-19 is evolving, testing for antibodies may identify people who have likely been exposed to COVID-19 and might have mounted an immune response to the virus,” said Dr. Jay Wohlgemuth, senior vice president and chief medical officer for Quest Diagnostics, in a prepared statement. “Our goal is to empower individuals and their physicians to make informed decisions about their risk of infection and of spreading the virus.”
Once the request is approved by a licensed physician, the person will schedule a blood drawn at Quest Diagnostics location and results are available in 1-2 days. There’s also the option to chat with a physician about the test results, according to the company’s news release.
“Antibody testing is not intended for use in individuals with an active COVID-19 infection, including individuals with symptoms,” according to the company’s news release. “Patients who believe they may have COVID-19 are strongly encouraged to contact their healthcare provider.”
Quest Diagnostics recently started administering antibody tests at their locations.
