Covid-19 causes a variety of symptoms. Because it is difficult to get testing many people had symptoms that were suspicious for Covid-19 but stayed home and did not get tested. We are now offering serology blood tests to see who previously had the virus. If you currently have no symptoms, you can come to the office for the blood test. People are still getting sick with the virus, so it is useful to know who already has antibodies. People with antibodies can potentially donate convalescent plasma to those who are ill through Children’s Hospital Colorado and Vitalant. There may be other plasma donation centers that are collecting plasma, call ahead to check.  You are eligible to donate if you have had a prior diagnosis of COVID-19 and have been symptom-free for 14 days. Check with the plasma donation program to see more eligibility requirements.

We think antibodies to the illness would indicate a decreased risk of severe recurrent disease. We do not know yet if people who had the virus can get it again, so it is important to still be careful. Everyone should follow the social distancing guidelines of their county and state. If you are currently ill, you should have a different test, a molecular diagnostic swab test. Please let us know in advance if you have a fever, cough, or shortness of breath so we can do a swab test. We are doing that test outside in your car to avoid bringing the virus into our office.