Florida evaluating options for coronavirus antibodies tests

Posted on April 24, 2020

The state of Florida is currently reviewing and evaluating options before moving forward with testing that could indicate how many people have contracted and already recovered from the COVID-19 strain of coronavirus.

As of Thursday’s 11 a.m. update, Taylor County was still listed as having only two local positive test results for COVID-19, leading many locals to ask, “If I think I may have previously had the coronavirus, how can I get tested for the antibodies?”

“Right now there are only four Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved tests for antibodies,” said Florida Department of Health – Taylor County Public Information Officer Martine Young.

“There are several on the market for use by medical providers, however, one-third of common colds are caused by coronaviruses, and these non-approved tests could cause a high re-activity,” Young added.

“This means that they will show you have antibodies for a coronavirus, but it might not be antibodies for COVID-19,” Young said.

According to Young, the state is currently reviewing and evaluating all available options, adding, “There is a lot of research going on to ensure the proper methods are used to prevent a false sense of security within the community.”

Subscribe to our e-Edition and read the rest of the story. Already a subscriber? Click here to sign in.