What Can Antibody Tests Really Tell You?

And they often begin with an at-home blood test that you might then mail back for analysis.

Take a new testing service bySerimmune, for example.

It works by using a blood sample patients collect at home.

Researchers analyze the sample in a lab to identifyantigensand epitopes associated with various diseases.

Months after youve recovered, your antibody level might dropbut that doesnt mean you have zero protection.

Your immune response is more than just antibodies.

Say you had COVID in the past, and you contract it again.

Your immune systemsmemory B-cells will kick into high gearand createmoreantibodies to fight it.

Both T-cells and B-cells are important parts of our adaptive immune systems.

In other words, comparing your antibody levels to someone elses isnt comparing apples to apples.

Suthar added that practicing behaviors that reduce virus risk is another way to protect against infection.

This includes wearing masks in crowded or high-risk places, like concerts.

Family history is also really important, Goode said.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.MMR and MMRV vaccine composition and dosage.

National Library of Medicine: MedlinePlus.Antibody serology.