State Officials Issue Guidance For Antibody Testing In Lexington

Press release from the Town of Lexington:

May 13, 2020

We know many people are anxious to learn if they’ve had COVID already, but antibody (serology) testing varies widely, and there is not enough information at this point to know whether a positive test indicates a person has immunity from the virus.

The most recent guidance from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (MDPH) does not recommend antibody testing at this time.

• For patients who have already received a positive COVID antibody test, but has not had a recent PCR (nasal swab) test result:
  • MDPH recommends following-up with a PCR test.
• In the absence of a PCR test following a positive COVID antibody test:
  • MDPH recommends patients isolate at home for a minimum of 10 days (from the date of the antibody test)
  • Close contacts will be recommended to quarantine at home for 14 days from the date of last exposure to the individual with the positive COVID test.

We are working with the most current guidance available to us. As we continue to learn more about the virus, guidance may change, and we will keep you updated.

This press release was produced by the Town of Lexington. The views expressed here are the author’s own.