Testing is being offered to the general public by appointment
CAYMAN ISLANDS (June 26, 2020) – Antibody testing for COVID-19 began on Saturday, June 20 at Health City Cayman Islands following the arrival of 5,000 test kits from Roche Diagnostics – one of two antibody test systems approved for use by Public Health England in May 2020.
Clinical Director Dr. Binoy Chattuparambil was pleased to add antibody testing to the Cayman Islands’ arsenal in fighting the spread of COVID-19.
“With the introduction of antibody testing, in addition to the PCR testing and all modalities of treatment, the Cayman Islands has the complete package in detecting and fighting COVID-19,” he said. “We are already at number three in the world for PCR testing per population. Our results show we are one of the safest places on Earth right now, so it is a very proud moment for me, and the public should take great comfort, because we can say we are living in a country that is very safe in terms of COVID-19.”
Antibody testing, also known as immunoglobulin testing, detects antibodies in the blood which are developed as part of the body’s immune system defense against viruses and diseases.
Immunoglobulin testing differs from PCR testing as while the PCR test via nasal swab detects active COVID-19 infection, the antibody test measures COVID-19 antibodies in the blood which indicate that the body has already fought the virus.
The antibody test itself is quick and -simple, requiring only 3cc of blood to be drawn with results back in under an hour.
The first priority for Health City with antibody testing has been its own front line workers, who had already been given PCR tests, followed by front line workers from other organizations.
Health City has also partnered with local private practitioners and clinics to have blood samples collected at their offices, and sent to the hospital lab for processing.
Additionally, the tertiary care hospital is offering antibody testing to the general public, and is taking bookings for testing appointments.
Test results are sent to the patient or referring physician by email within 24 hours. All patients who test positive will be contacted by Public Health for follow-up PCR testing to determine if their infection is past or present.
To book an appointment for antibody testing, interested parties can send an email to Covid19antibodytest@healthcity.ky including their name, date of birth and phone number. Alternatively, they can also call or text 525-1481.
Testing appointments will be booked between 10am and 12pm and from 1pm to 3pm Monday to Friday and on Saturdays from 10am to 12pm.
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