Texas DSHS Laboratory: COVID-19 Serology Testing Available Starting August 01, 2020

DSHS Laboratory – Microbiological Sciences Branch Notice

COVID-19 Serology Testing Available Starting August 01, 2020 at The DSHS Austin Laboratory

The DSHS Austin Laboratory now provides testing for total antibodies (IgM, IgA, and IgG) to SARS-CoV-2 (virus that causes COVID-19) in human blood utilizing the Bio-Rad Platelia SARS-CoV-2 Total Ab assay. This serology test can be used to detect whether there has been an adaptive immune response to COVID-19, indicating a recent or prior infection, but should not be used for diagnostic purposes.  Specimens will not be tested without prior Epidemiologist (Epi) approval.  Contact your Regional and/or Local Health Department (https://www.dshs.texas.gov/regions/2019-nCoV-Local-Health-Entities/) and obtain Epidemiologist (Epi) approval to test.

• Find specimen collection and submission instructions here.
• Required Forms: G-2A Specimen Submission Form
• Acceptable specimen criteria: 
  • Specimen Type  
    • Serum in a gel separator tube or transport tube
    • Plasma collected in EDTA
  • Shipping Requirements
    • if DSHS receives within 4 days of collection ─ ship cold at +2-8°C
    • if DSHS receives > 4 days of collection ─ frozen/dry ice at -20°C or colder

• For further details regarding the Bio-Rad Platelia SARS-CoV-2 Total Ab assay visit the EUA Authorized Serology Test Performance page: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/emergency-situations-medical-devices/eua-authorized-serology-test-performance
• Fact Sheet for Patients: https://www.fda.gov/media/137495/download
• Fact Sheet for Healthcare Providers: https://www.fda.gov/media/137492/download

For additional information and ongoing updates regarding the COVID-19 situation, please go to: https://www.dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus/ 

Email: coronavirus@dshs.texas.gov

DSHS COVID‑19 Call Center:  2-1-1 Option 6  Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m., Monday – Friday