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now offering
COVID-19 serology testing
Your body is your best diagnostic tool. That’s why at Mint Health + Drugs we are now offering COVID-19 Serology Testing – a point of care test enabling healthcare providers to monitor your immune response, which in turn helps them make better decisions about your health.
This test measures your antibody response in the form of immunoglobulins (IgM, IgG), following infection or vaccination. Some antibodies are seen as early as three days postinfection, but antibodies may take 14 days or more to be identified.
At Mint Health + Drugs we offer walk-in testing services and flexible hours to accommodate your schedule.
Covid Serology POC testing is now available at these select locations:
COVID-19
Resources
Need to Request an Appointment?
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Who should get tested?
a) If you have had COVID-19, or suspect you may have had COVID-19 in the recent past, and at least 3 weeks have passed since symptom onset or exposure.
b) Anyone who would like to confirm the presence of antiviral antibodies as part of your immune response a minimum of 3 weeks post-vaccination.
Why should you get tested?
This test will show whether you have developed antibodies against the disease as a result of vaccination or previous infection. High antibody levels are associated with lower risk of serious illness or hospitalization.
What do my results mean?
In some cases, serologic testing can show that you were infected naturally and/or vaccinated. Your pharmacist will discuss your test results with you and help make decisions about your treatment plan and future care.
How does COVID-19 Serology Testing work?
Our Covid Serology POC tests are completed in a CPSA accredited lab. Tests may be billable through many health insurance spending accounts. Speak with your pharmacist for more information.
Why choose a point of care test?
- Rapid results
- Easy access
- Results are assessed by pharmacist and they can offer clinical advice
Please note this screening test is not a substitute for medical advice. Discuss your results with a healthcare professional and do not make any self-directed decisions or medication changes based on the results of this test.
Did you know?
COVID-19 can be identified by two methods. The swab test detects if you are currently infected, and
the blood test can indicate prior infection or the presence of antibodies.
we offer lab certified rapid
we offer personalized
Antigen
Testing
Need a COVID test for travel, workplace, or a special event? Rapid Antigen Screening for COVID-19 is now available at pharmacies for the general public at Mint Health + Drugs locations across Alberta.
See participating locations below:
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is a COVID-19 Antigen test?
The COVID-19 pandemic has been widespread around the world. As of May 2021, approximately 25,000 Canadians have died due to infection. The pandemic is caused by a type of coronavirus, often referred to as COVID-19 or SARS-CoV-2.Testing is used to identify those infected with the virus.
There are multiple accepted test types, which include polmerase chain reaction (PCR), which detects coronavirus DNA; and serology tests, which detect antibodies that the body makes to fight the virus. Serology confirms if you were previously infected or vaccinated and does not tell if you are currently infected. The test we access oers a COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test. This method uses a nasal swab to detect the coronavirus nucleocapsid (a unique shell that surrounds the virus), and tells if you are currently infected. The main advantages are low cost, portability, and fast results (15 minutes).
What is a COVID-19 Antigen test?
Why should I get an Antigen test?
Employer-initiated testing: Your employer may require you be tested, which especially applies to businesses that work with vulnerable people, have high-risk environments, or provide essential services.
Special Events: As Canada gradually re-opens, precautions will be necessary for events such as concerts, banquets, sporting events, and other gatherings. Testing for COVID-19 infection or proof of immunization may be required for you to attend.
International Travel: A negative COVID-19 test is required for travel to many countries, including the Unites States, UK, Eastern Europe, and South America. The COVID-19 antigen test is accepted by certain countries, please confirm prior to travel as each nations’ requirement differs.
What do my results mean?
The COVID-19 rapid antigen test is used to screen for infection. A screening test is used to examine large groups to detect illness at an early stage. There are many advantages to screening, but the results of these tests are not conclusive. If you have a positive antigen test, the test will be repeated. If this second test is positive, you will be asked to isolate at home and call 811 to arrange a PCR test to confirm the results. Those who have had close contact with you over the previous two weeks may also have to isolate and arrange testing. A negative antigen test does not
conclusively prove you are not infected with COVID-19, but the advantages of these approved test are an important tool in limiting the spread of COVID-19.
providing accurate and reliable results
USING SAFE
METHODS
Only testing devices authorized by Health Canada can be imported or sold in Canada.
Unauthorized tests may not produce accurate results. This can lead to potential misdiagnosis. Health Canada confirms that authorized COVID-19 tests are well supported by evidence that indicates they will provide accurate and reliable results.
Why should I get an Antigen test?
- Rapid results
- Easy access
- No appointment necessary
- Billable through many health insurance plans
- Health Canada approved
- Discuss your results with your physician
FEATURED ARTICLE
What You Should Know Before You Travel
POSTED IN
Traveling can be one of the most fulfilling things in life, but many people don’t recognize the dangers of it. Whether you’re traveling for leisure or traveling for business, travelling to almost any part of the world carries its own health risks. That’s why it’s so important to seek professional advice from a healthcare professional. […]
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