EBO MD offers all three types of COVID-19 tests: molecular (PCR), antigen and antibody. Tests are not billable to insurance but can be paid with a qualified health savings account. Tests will be performed at the Cape Girardeau location only at this time (1417 N. Mount Auburn Road, upper level).

For more information or to schedule a test, call the dedicated COVID testing line at 573-334-6826.

• Molecular tests, commonly called PCR tests, require a nose or throat swab and take 24-48 hours to get results. This test works by detecting the genetic material of the novel coronavirus. It is considered the most sensitive test for detecting an active infection and the results are highly accurate, though, due to the sensitivity, positives can show even after someone is no longer sick or infectious.
• Antigen tests, commonly called rapid tests, require a nose or throat swab. Results are usually available within 24 hours. This type of test works by detecting molecules on the surface of the virus. Though fast, they are prone to false negatives and may require a follow-up PCR test for accuracy.
• Antibody tests require a blood sample and aren’t recommended until at least 14 days after starting to show symptoms. This test works by identifying antibodies that indicate a previous infection. Because of this, it cannot be used to diagnose an active coronavirus infection, just whether you’ve been infected at some point in the past, even months ago. An antibody test can provide information on the prevalence of the infection in the population and the frequency of asymptomatic infections. New protein spike antibody tests can measure immune response to either a COVID-19 infection or vaccination. When combined into a pre/post-vaccination assessment, the COVID-19 immune response panel and the COVID-19 vaccine response screen provide clarity into not only when an individual should receive a vaccine, but the effectiveness of their body’s immune response to the inoculation. Results are usually available within 48 hours.

Symptoms of COVID-19 vary from mild to severe and may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Some of the most common symptoms include fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, a new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, or diarrhea. You should seek emergency medical care immediately if someone is showing any of these signs: trouble breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, new confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, bluish lips or face, or any other severe or concerning symptoms.