PRAXIS offers the LIAISON® serological test from the Italian laboratory DiaSorin, approved by Health Canada on May 12, 2020. This blood test detects whether an asymptomatic person has been in contact with the SARS-CoV-2 virus by identifying the presence of antibodies. The serological test is analyzed in a laboratory with a medical prescription. The cost of the analysis is \$195.

A complement in the fight against COVID-19

Taking a serological test does not guarantee any immunity. Even if your results show contact with the coronavirus, it is essential to continue following public health guidelines. We recommend maintaining social distancing, frequent hand washing, and wearing a face covering. To date, no research has proven immunity against COVID-19. It is unknown how long antibodies persist after infection and whether their presence provides protective immunity. Additionally, the serological test alone cannot determine if the patient is still contagious. A PCR test, combined with the serological test and symptom assessment, can indicate whether a patient has been infected and recovered, thus no longer contagious. This test is not intended to diagnose an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection.

To schedule an appointment

Patients wishing to take a COVID-19 serological test can quickly schedule an appointment on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. by calling 1.833.312.5050, option 1. A blood draw appointment may be available the same day as the call. Contact our customer service team for more information!

Results by phone

All results are communicated to the patient by phone within approximately 10 to 14 days. You will receive a call from a team member to inform you of the result, whether positive or negative. If the result is positive, it means you have been in contact with the virus and have developed antibodies. We remind you that no studies have demonstrated any long-term immunity or its effectiveness against potential re-exposure to the COVID-19 virus.

What is a serological test?

A serological test is a blood test that determines whether a person has produced antibodies in response to an infection by a virus, specifically the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It is intended to help identify individuals who have an adaptive immune response to SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, indicating a recent or past infection. It does not detect active COVID-19 infection. As Health Canada states, “serological tests are not appropriate for the early diagnosis of COVID-19, mainly due to the variability in the time needed for antibodies to develop after infection.” Antibodies simply indicate whether the patient’s immune system has responded to an infection.

Difference between serological test and PCR test

The virological or PCR test is the one we all know, currently used to detect the virus’s genetic code. Using a swab, a sample of mucous is taken from the nose to quickly identify the presence of the virus. The serological test should be seen as a complement to the virological test that detects COVID-19. The serological test answers the question, “Have I been sick with COVID-19?” However, the serological test cannot determine whether or not a person is contagious. Finally, it does not yet allow conclusions about potential protective immunity, so it cannot answer the question, “Am I protected against COVID-19?”

Contact us

Questions? Want to learn more about the serological test? Contact us today!

The service is offered at all our clinics.