
Facts about COVID-19
The 2019 novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a virus caused by infection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).
COVID-19 is thought to spread from person to person in close contact through respiratory droplets.
These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. It is also possible that a person can catch COVID-19 by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes.
Currently, previous testing for COVID-19 has included only a nasopharyngeal (NP) swab, which is tested for the presence of DNA from the virus.
Facts about the Vibrant COVID-19 Panel
Vibrant has developed a novel test for COVID-19 that is highly sensitive and accurate in testing for viral antibodies present in an individual.
Vibrant’s COVID-19 ImmuneCheck looks specifically for IgM, IgA, and IgG antibodies as well as four viral antigens that will help assess your immunity against this novel virus.
The test is validated according to FDA EUA requirements. We have deemed this to be one of the most thorough tests on the market due to the examination of three antibodies at 12 capture points as well as four viral antigens.
Why Test Antibodies to COVID-19?
Antibodies have been found to be highly sensitive indicators in infectious disease diagnosis. Profiling an individual’s antibody response is the only way to determine infections with few or no symptoms.
What is an Antibody Test?
The immune system makes antibodies to protect the body from bacteria, viruses, and allergens. An Antibody Test measures the level of different types of antibodies in the blood.
This COVID-19 test will be measuring for three antibody types:
IgM: found mainly in blood and lymph fluid. This is the first antibody the body makes when it fights a new infection. Recent studies on SARS-CoV2 have shown IgM antibodies to appear about 3 days from infection.
IgG: found in the blood and other body fluids, and protects against bacterial and viral infections. IgG can take time to form after an infection or immunization. Recent studies on SARS-CoV2 have shown IgG antibodies to appear after 8 days from infection.
IgA: found in the linings of the respiratory tract and digestive system, as well as in saliva (spit), tears, and breast milk.
How Will the Test Be Conducted?
This test requires a one vial blood sample. You can arrange to have your blood drawn in our office in downtown Santa Barbara, or if you prefer, you can schedule the blood draw with our preferred mobile phlebotomist at your home for an additional fee. The blood draw appointment should only take about 15 minutes. You will not need to be fasting prior to having your blood drawn. We will then take your sample and send it directly to the lab for analysis.
How Will My Results Be Reviewed?
Once we receive your lab results, typically within business 5 days, we will contact you to schedule a phone consultation with Dr. Evans. This consultation will take approximately 15-30 minutes so that you have a thorough understanding of your results. If you are a returning patient, the total cost for the test and the follow up visit is $250.
What if I Am a New Patient?
If you are new to Origins Integrative Medicine and are interested in the COVID-19 Antibody testing, we can schedule you for an introductory visit. This appointment will take about 15-20 minutes in order to establish care between Dr. Evans and yourself. After we collect your blood sample and receive your results, we will then schedule a follow up appointment to review those. The total cost for the initial visit, the test, and the follow up is $340. If you would like to book online, you go here and choose "IV Intro Visit." In the comments section, please include your date of birth and if you would prefer your consult to be in person or over the phone.
If you would like to book an appointment with us, you can call us at (805) 203-6877 or book online!