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Aspirus adds antibody testing

WAUSAU, Wis. – Aspirus is bringing serology, or antibody, testing to the area.

Aspirus is scheduled to begin providing COVID-19 antibody tests immediately.

Testing will be performed daily, and results will be available within 24 hours of a sample arriving at the Aspirus Wausau Hospital Lab.

An antibody test looks for the presence of antibodies, which are specific proteins made in response to infections. Antibodies can be found in the blood of people who are tested after infection and demonstrate an immune response to the infection. Antibody test results are especially important for detecting previous infections with few or no symptoms.

It’s important to note that it is not known if the antibodies will provide people with immunity from future infections, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

“The availability of antibody tests is an important turning point in the progression of a pandemic,” ” said Aspirus System Laboratory Services Director Deakin Washatko. “The antibody test is an important next step in the fight against COVID-19. This will help us get a clearer picture of how the disease has spread throughout the community.”

If you think you need a serology test, please contact your primary care provider.

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