COVID-19 antibody (IgG) test
Quick answer: This blood test measures IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Doctors may order it to check for a past infection or vaccine response. It is not used to diagnose a current infection.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1A nurse confirms your details and vaccine history
- 2A vein in your arm is cleaned
- 3A needle collects a tube of blood
- 4The lab measures IgG antibodies to the SARS-CoV-2 virus
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A positive result shows past infection or vaccination, not how protected you are; discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result can show past infection, vaccination or both, depending on which part of the virus the test targets. It does not show whether you are protected now or whether you are infected today.
Who usually has this test
People asked to check for past COVID-19 infection or vaccine response, for example in some medical or research settings.
Risks and aftercare
Apart from slight soreness where the needle went in, there are no after-effects.
Names and options
Also called: COVID antibody, SARS-CoV-2 IgG, corona antibody test
Listed by the hospital as
- COVID ANTIBODY IgG
Questions about this test
Can a COVID antibody test show a current infection?
No. Antibodies take time to form after infection. A nose or throat swab test is used to check for current infection.
Can the test tell vaccine antibodies from infection antibodies?
It depends on the test. Tests against the spike protein pick up both, while tests against the nucleocapsid protein mainly pick up past infection.
Does a high antibody level mean I do not need a booster?
Not necessarily. Antibody levels do not reliably predict protection, so follow current vaccine advice from your doctor.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.