Anti-body testing for Social Care staff

From Friday 7^th August Anti-Body testing will be available to all Social Care staff, including private providers.

This agreement is a partnership between the Department for Health and Social Care and the NHS and we are working closely with local NHS partners to roll out the testing.

Anti-body testing is a key part of the Government’s testing programme and will become more and more important as we move into the next phase of the pandemic. It will help grow our understanding of the virus and how immune systems respond to the illness.

Book your test here.

Molineux - https://bookwhen.com/molineux_testing

Testing is available at Molineux Urgent Treatment Centre from Tuesday 11^th August.  Please note parking is limited. 

What is anti-body testing?

It is a simple test performed on a blood sample. It can tell someone whether they have had the virus that causes COVID-19 in the past. It differs from virus testing (PCR), which will tell someone if they currently have the virus.

Will anti-body testing tell me if I am immune?

No, COVID-19 is a new disease and our understanding is limited.

There is no clear understanding of how long any protection may last or if you can still transmit the infection to other people.

If you do test positive for the anti-bodies and display any COVID-19 symptoms or come into contact with someone with COVID-19 you will still follow the guidance on self-isolation which is available here.

What does a COVID-19 antibody test result mean?

A positive result means that COVID-19 antibodies were DETECTED.

This means you have been infected with COVID-19 in the past.

You should not do anything different if you test positive. Stick to the Government guidance and adhere to all the hygiene and distancing measures in your workplace.

A negative result means that COVID-19 antibodies were NOT DETECTED.

For most people this means you have not had COVID-19. Remember, not everyone who has had a positive swab test have detectable antibodies.

Are these tests compulsory?

No. Staff can choose to have the test – they are not compulsory but we would encourage all staff to play their part in protecting Newcastle’s residents and communities by having a test.

How will I be informed of the result?

You will be informed of the result by text message.

Do I need to take the test during work hours?

Testing will take place between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.

How will my information be used?

The anonymised results across the testing programme will provide information of the widespread presence of COVID-19 in different regions of the country and help better understand how the disease spreads. 

Your personal details will only be shared beyond the Council, NHS partners and your GP.

Your blood sample will be stored for a period of time, in line with national guidance. This helps with further testing if needed.

Where can I find more information?

If you have any concerns or questions you should speak to your manager, alternatively you can find out more information on the Public Health England website here.