In today’s world, countless individuals turn to “Dr. Google” for health inquiries, especially during a pandemic. It’s no surprise that searches for COVID-19 symptoms skyrocketed as the virus spread. This surge in online searches has proven valuable for researchers monitoring the evolving symptoms of COVID-19 patients.
With the increase in available antibody tests, many people who previously relied on online searches now have the chance to determine if they had been infected with the virus, particularly in the weeks leading up to the test. I found myself among this group.
Back in late February, I experienced the worst illness of my life. After going to bed early one night, I woke up five hours later with severe body aches, chills, a sore throat, a swollen eye, and a relentless cough. My husband had to leave for work the next day, leaving me to manage two preschoolers and two toddlers while feeling miserable. I vividly recall having to pause halfway up the stairs just to catch my breath before reaching my twin two-year-olds. By that evening, my fever soared to 104 degrees. I took at least ten hot baths that night, attempting to find some comfort.
When I still felt unwell the following day, I visited a nearby walk-in clinic. My oxygen levels were alarmingly low, and despite feeling warm instead of cold, my fever persisted at 102 degrees. After receiving a breathing treatment and being diagnosed with influenza B, I left with a handful of prescriptions. However, improvement was slow, and as COVID-19 cases began to rise in my area, I wondered if there was more at play than just the flu.
I was hesitant to be one of those individuals demanding a test for a deadly virus when few cases were reported in my county, especially since I had already tested positive for influenza. Nonetheless, I questioned whether I was among the many undocumented COVID-19 cases.
A few weeks ago, a friend informed me that the doctor’s office where she worked was offering COVID-19 antibody tests that could detect specific proteins in the blood related to past coronavirus infections. Initially, I was skeptical. Although these tests can help gauge virus immunity in populations, I was aware that the accuracy of COVID-19 antibody tests was still debated. Various lab tests existed, all differing in precision, and some could pick up antibodies from other coronaviruses that are not related to COVID-19.
Despite my doubts, I decided to research the specific test offered at the clinic and made an appointment.
Upon arriving at the office, I donned a mask and was directed to a back entrance, where I was led into a small, private room after ringing a bell. Thankfully, there were no other patients around. I sat in a freshly sanitized exam chair and rolled up my sleeve, expecting a blood draw, only to learn that it would be a simple finger prick instead (a pleasant surprise!).
The test resembled a dollar store pregnancy test and, surprisingly, I was told I would receive my results in ten minutes. I waited in my vehicle until a nurse delivered the news: my COVID-19 antibody test was negative. Reflexively, I responded, “Oh, good!” to which she replied, “Or bad, depending on your perspective.”
Her dark humor was spot on. We currently lack sufficient understanding of COVID-19 and its antibodies to definitively react to either a positive or negative test result. The World Health Organization (WHO) states, “Individuals who recover from infection develop antibodies to the virus. However, some have low levels of neutralizing antibodies, indicating that cellular immunity may also play a vital role in recovery.”
False negatives and positives are concerning but expected to some extent. Experts worry more about the false security a positive result could provide; while antibodies from other viruses can confer immunity, there is no evidence yet that COVID-19 antibodies offer protection against future infection.
As of now, there’s insufficient evidence to support the idea of an “immunity passport.” Therefore, regardless of antibody test outcomes, it remains essential to practice social distancing, wear masks during necessary outings, and stay informed for everyone’s safety.
For more insights on related topics, check out our other blog posts, including one about home insemination. If you’re interested in fertility resources, visit Make a Mom for expert advice or Mount Sinai for comprehensive information on pregnancy and home insemination.
In summary, my experience with the COVID-19 antibody test provided valuable insights into the complexities surrounding the virus and antibody testing. While my results were negative, the ongoing uncertainty surrounding immunity and infection prevention remains a significant concern.
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