Smith’s Food and Drug is offering rapid COVID-19 antibody tests at a number of locations to help people see if they’ve built up the antibodies after a previous infection.
What’s going on?
Kroger recently made rapid antibody testing available in all Kroger pharmacies in all states, according to Smith’s website. The company said it’s a critical move to help people identify past infections.
- “Kroger Health’s Rapid Antibody Test can provide critical information about past infection to patients who believe they may have previously been exposed to the coronavirus but were unable to access testing at the time of their potential infection,” according to Smith’s website.
Who qualifies?
People who believed they may have been infected with COVID-19 and aren’t experiencing symptoms
How much does it cost?
The antibody test costs $25.
How does the test work?
A pharmacist will conduct a “blood-based fingerstick test.” Results will arrive in 15 minutes.
How do I get an appointment?
Simple. Head over to Smith’s website and book a spot.
One final note
It’s important to know that COVID-19 antibodies might not mean you’re fully protected from COVID-19. In fact, earlier in January, a new study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that people who recovered from the novel coronavirus may have less than 90 days of immunity.
The study included 156 health care workers in the U.S. who tested positive for COVID-19. These patients took an antibody test one month after developing symptoms, and then another about 60 days later.
- 94% of participants showed some decline in antibodies by the time of the second test.
- 28% experienced a significant decline.