About a week ago, The ? and I got tested for Covid-19. It was so easy!!! I highly recommend it. In New York State, where we live, you can go to various locations and quickly get tested. We chose City MD on 14th Street in Manhattan because of its location, but also because all City MD locations aren’t charging for Covid-19 testing.
We went on a Friday afternoon and waited in a line (outside) for about 30 minutes or so, then we got called inside. Once we were inside the kindest staff greeted us, then instructed us on how to use their various computer stations to register. It took about 2 minutes of answering questions, scanning your ID and signing off. After that, we sat and waited for about 10 minutes until we were called into a room by a medical professional/nurse. They swiftly took our vitals (blood pressure, oxygen levels, etc). I chose to do a nasal swab and blood test to check for it all – I mean…why not?
What do these COVID-19 tests detect?
PCR (Nasal Swab): This test will detect if you are actively infected with the COVID-19 virus.
Serum Antibody IgG (Blood Test): This test will detect if you have had prior exposure to COVID-19 and have built an antibody for the virus. For most viral illnesses, a positive antibody means prior exposure to a virus and some degree of immunity to future infection. As COVID-19 is a novel (new) infection, it is unclear if a positive antibody definitively offers immunity. Most experts agree it likely does, however the recommendation is to still practice universal precautions. (via CityMD)
Drawing blood doesn’t scare me, I just don’t like it – but, it was quick and easy. A doctor came in and did a few other checks (breathing, etc) and then she did my nasal swab. I had heard uncomfortable things about it, but I had also heard it wasn’t that awkward – but, it was strange to feel something go that far up your nasal cavity.
Also, it was so quick…it was fine. About a week later your results can be found on their portal. Me and Emil read negative for both tests! It took about 45 minutes and doing it felt like such an accomplishment, but more than that – we know the results and that feels fantastic!
If you don’t live near a CityMD, check this CDC.Com link that lists each states Health Department Websites with information. I highly recommend it! Health is wealth and we must take care of ourselves and each other!
