Covid 19 Testing

COVID19

Table of Contents

• WHAT IS COVID19?
• TESTING
• WHAT IF MY TEST RETURNS POSITIVE?
• WHAT IF MY TEST RETURNS NEGATIVE?
• StrIVeMD WELLNESS & KETAMINE - COVID19 TESTING

WHAT IS COVID19?

COVID19 is a novel coronavirus that has affected nearly 15 million Americans. We are learning more and more about this virus but still do not know enough. What we do understand is that it is very contagious and has a multitude of effects. Initially thought to mainly affect the respiratory system, COVID19 is now known to affect multiple organ systems, including the GI tract, pulmonary, cardiovascular, and nervous systems, in addition to causing long lasting symptoms.

You have been exposed if you are in contact with someone for 15 minutes within 6 feet, a household contact, close physical contact (hugging, kissing, sharing utensils, etc), or respiratory droplet exposure (cough/sneeze in close proximity) with someone who is or presumed to be COVID19 positive. The difficulty is knowing who has COVID19. Unfortunately, asymptomatic infections are prevalent, and it can be difficult to know if someone has it.

All experts agree that the best way to combat this pandemic is with more testing. With this in mind, many places are requiring negative tests, such as airlines, schools, and businesses. Many families are even choosing to forgo family gatherings because of the pandemic. However, some are choosing to self-quarantine for 14 days before a planned get-together or for everyone to get tested prior to the family gathering. If you become exposed or need to travel or want the extra peace of mind before a small group gathering, your options are to either self-quarantine for 14 days or simply get tested. Our test results come back same day.

TESTING

Our test is a quick and reliable way to know your COVID19 status. We comply with CLIA (Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments) regulations, required by law. The FDA has authorized this antigen test⁴ under an EUA for detection of proteins from SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID19. The pandemic is not going away on its own. Many schools, businesses, and states require evidence of a negative COVID19 test. According to the CDC⁵, antigen testing is useful as a screening test to quickly identify persons with COVID19 infection to prevent transmission.

There are antibody testing and viral testing. Antibody testing will show if you have been exposed to the virus and your immune system has detected the virus in the past. Viral testing will show active infections by testing for the virus itself, like our COVID19 antigen test. If you need to rule out active COVID19 infection, our antigen test is the preferred method over an antibody test.

You may be asked by a school, an employer, or when travelling to routinely have testing to ensure everyone’s safety. We simply insert the testing swab into your nostril for a few seconds, and then you are done. We will test the swab and report your results to you before the end of the day!

Give us a call today to schedule your appointment for COVID19 testing. We ask that patients who are actively showing symptoms of infection to contact their health provider instead of coming to our office.

WHAT IF MY TEST RETURNS POSITIVE?

A positive test result likely means you have an active COVID19 infection. You should self-quarantine and follow local and CDC guidelines. Monitor your symptoms and seek medical attention if needed.

WHAT IF MY TEST RETURNS NEGATIVE?

A negative result likely means you were not actively infected at the time of your test. However, there is a small possibility of showing symptoms shortly after your negative result. In that situation, it is a good idea to get tested again as the virus may have only begun replicating. And, a negative test result does not mean you will not get infected in the future. If you have contact with a confirmed COVID19 positive person, then you should self-quarantine and follow local and CDC guidelines.

StrIVeMD WELLNESS & KETAMINE - COVID19 TESTING

At StrIVeMD Wellness & Ketamine, we offer quick appointments and a quick turnaround time for results. We will test individuals who need proof of negative COVID19 testing for school, work, domestic or international travel/flights, or family gatherings. The cost is $175. We ask that patients who are actively showing symptoms of infection to contact their health provider instead of coming to our office. If you need a letter for work, school, travel, or family gatherings, we will gladly send a signed letter with your results to you as well. Call 847-213-0990 today for your appointment!

References

• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html
• https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/69/wr/mm6930e1.htm
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/hcp/clinical-care/late-sequelae.html
• https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19-emergency-use-authorizations-medical-devices/vitro-diagnostics-euas#individual-antigen
• https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/lab/resources/antigen-tests-guidelines.html