Other Testing Options
1. PCR Testing
If appropriate, PCR testing is available through Primary Health Care (PHC) providers (physicians and nurse practitioners).
COVID-19 vaccinations remain the best defence to prevent serious illness and hospitalizations. The Saskatchewan Health Authority and pharmacies throughout the province continue to provide vaccination clinics. To find a clinic near you please visit COVID-19 Vaccine.
2. Antibody Testing
Antibody (serology) testing is generally limited to the following cases:
- Patients with suspected multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS) due to COVID-19 infection
- For public health investigation of complicated COVID-19 case transmissions
- In patients with severe illness who have repeatedly received a negative lab PCR test result
Antibody testing results cannot tell the difference between those who are vaccinated or previously infected with COVID-19. Positive antibody test results will only show that you've either been exposed to COVID-19 OR vaccinated OR both. It cannot tell you if you are protected from COVID-19.
Additionally:
- Antibody levels decline over time, so an individual may have no measurable antibodies despite having been previously infected.
- Even with antibodies, individuals can still be re-infected with COVID-19 and capable of transmitting the virus to others.