Antibody tests available to ’essential’ workers

Antibody testing for those considered essential workers was made available Wednesday in Sonoma County.

Anyone considered an “essential” worker -- such as people who work in grocery stores, childcare providers, in-home support caregivers, and construction and utility workers – during the initial phase of shelter-in-place orders can get a blood test to see if they have the COVID-19 antibody. The antibody test determines if the coronavirus antibody is present in the body, but a positive test for antibodies does not indicate immunity to the virus.

First responders – police, fire, and health care workers – as well as those who tested positive for coronavirus at least three weeks ago continue to be offered testing by the County of Sonoma. For people who tested positive, their close contacts who are at risk of exposure to the virus may also be tested.

To make an appointment call 707-565-4667. People currently experiencing symptoms of coronavirus should get a diagnostic (viral) test at one of several locations in the county listed on the Sonoma County Emergency Website (https://socoemergency.org/emergency/novel-coronavirus/stay-healthy/covid-19-testing-in-sonoma-county/).