LifeLabs announces antibody test to detect past COVID-19 exposure

Written By ALYSSA PARKHILL

local journalism initiative reporter

On November 23, Canada's largest community lab, LifeLabs, announced it was taking the next step towards protecting Canadians from the COVID-19 virus.

A new antibody test has been launched by the Canadian company that will help individuals and healthcare providers “determine prior COVID-19 infection.”

The test has been developed not to diagnose the virus, but to help healthcare providers seek information on individuals' past history on whether they have had the virus beforehand or have been exposed prior. 

“As we continue to increase our capacity for molecular COVID-19 testing in our labs to detect the virus, we're pleased to also offer antibody testing as another piece of the puzzle to better understand COVID-19,” said Charles Brown, President and CEO of LifeLabs.

LifeLabs states that antibody responses to COVID-19 virus can take time depending on the individual and recommends the test be done and ordered three to four weeks after having symptoms or being exposed for the most accurate results. 

The Canadian company recommends considering an antibody test if individuals have any suspicion that they have had the COVID-19 virus even without showing any symptoms.

According to LifeLabs, “it is not known if the presence of antibodies to COVID-19 means you are immune to the virus and protected from re-infection. Based on currently studies, antibodies to COVID-19 virus can be detected up to four months post exposure, but levels vary depending on individual immune response as well as disease severity.” 

The antibody test has been approved by Health Canada and has become available for LifeLabs customers in British Columbia and Ontario with a cost of $75. 

Appointments are recommended, but walk-ins will be allowed.

For further information, please visit lifelabs.com.