RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – The Alliar laboratory network has begun providing serology tests that detect antibodies against the novel coronavirus. The test identifies if the person has been infected with the virus, which may show immunity to the disease. After the test, and should it come back positive, an immunology test certificate is issued.
The test result comes out within 24 hours if performed in São Paulo, and 48 hours in other locations. The cost is R$350 (US$64). The individual is required to attend one of the company’s facilities for blood collection, through a previously scheduled appointment. According to Juan Cevasco, Alliar Group’s medical director, the test is critical to determining if an individual has developed antibodies.
“We believe that the test is critical for the entire population, particularly for groups of people who work in the front line of the fight against the pandemic and are dealing directly with the public,” Cevasco says. “Identifying who has already been infected and is immune will also contribute to a safer return to activities when the social isolation rules are relaxed”.
The laboratory also offers two other types of tests for the coronavirus: the PCR, which identifies if the person is sick and can transmit the virus, and the so-called rapid test, which also identifies antibodies, although quantitatively, not determining immunity. These two tests can be performed through a home collection or on a drive-thru system. The cost is R$350 and R$210, respectively, plus R$40 if a home collection service is used.
See how to schedule the antibody test:
São Paulo (São Paulo) – CDB Inteligência Diagnóstica.
Belo Horizonte (Minas Gerais) – Axial Inteligência Diagnóstica at Minas Shopping Mall.
Salvador (Bahia) – Delfin Inteligência Diagnóstica at the Itaigara facility.
Vitória (Espírito Santo) – Multiscan Inteligência Diagnóstica at the Praia do Canto facility.
Belém (Pará) – CSD Inteligência Diagnóstica at the office and Parque Shopping facility.
Campo Grande (Mato Grosso do Sul) – Multilab/Diimagem Inteligência Diagnóstica.
Source: Exame