Testing FAQ
What kind of SARS-CoV-2 Tests does MCI One Health provide?
4 different types of tests to help Corporations, Community Groups in the fight against Covid-19
- RT-PCR Testing. Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) tests on Health Canada Approved Devices. The RT-PCR test is used for the qualitative detection of nucleic acid from SARS-CoV-2. This test is accepted for international travel by governments all over the world.
- Lateral Flow (Rapid Antigen) Testing. Antigen Tests are immunoassays that detect the presence of a specific viral antigen, which implies current infection. Antigen tests are less sensitive than RT-PCR tests however they can be used to detect the presence of the virus amongst people who have a high viral load (those who are most contagious). Health Canada has approved the use of Antigen tests as a method of screening for the virus. All positive Antigen tests require confirmatory PCR testing.
- Antibody IgM Testing. Antibody or serology tests look for antibodies in your blood to determine if you had a past infection with the virus that causes COVID-19. Antibodies are proteins created by your body’s immune system soon after you’ve been infected or vaccinated. Our test provides specific values for IgM and IgG. We are approved by the Japanese’s Embassy, In Canada for Antibody and PCR & Antibody travel testing, for more info please visit https://www.toronto.ca.emb-japan.go.jp
Yes. Our tests are approved for international travel.
Can I add my passport to my test results?
Yes. Several countries around the world require passport information on the test results in order for the results to be accepted.
If I’m symptomatic, can I come in for a test?
If you are symptomatic or have been contacted by public health you do not qualify to use our screening services. You must visit a Government testing center. You can find more info here.
If I am vaccinated (single or double dose) will it impact the result of my Covid-19 PCR or Antigen test?
No. A vaccine will not impact the results of a PCR or Antigen test.
Can I use your test results for travel purposes?
Yes. Our tests are approved for international travel.
Can I add my passport to my test results?
Yes. Several countries around the world require passport information on the test results in order for the results to be accepted.
What happens if I test positive?
All positive test results are sent to Public Health in accordance with Provincial guidelines and regulations. Our nurse will also call you at the number provided upon registration within 24 hours of your result to check up with you and answer any questions you may have.
Can I buy a bulk package of tests for my company?
Yes, we offer Individual and Corporate packages. Please reach out to corpbooking@mcimed.com
for information and pricing.
What if I test positive for SARS-COV-2?
If your test does come back positive for COVID-19 we send your results to Public Health who may be in touch with you. We also recommend that you contact public health for a diagnostic testing and further instructions on next steps. If you are feeling unwell, we recommend that you contact your family physician or emergency department based on your symptoms.
Do you test children?
Yes. You can conduct tests on all people aged 1 year and older.
Antibody Test FAQ
What is an Antibody test for COVID-19?
An antibody is a molecule that is produced by the human body’s immune system in response to an infection or a vaccine. An antibody test is a moment in time snapshot of the antibody levels measured in a blood sample.
Should I get an Antibody test?
An antibody test can be used to evaluate past infection or if your body is producing antibodies post vaccine. The ideal frame to get an antibody test is at least 3 weeks after infection or vaccination. Antibody levels may not be detected after 3 months. Please note: this does not mean you do not have antibodies it means that the level of antibodies is below the threshold for detection
What Antibody test should I get?
There are multiple types of antibody tests depending on your needs. An N antibody test (Nucleoprotein of SARS-CoV-2) focuses exclusively on measuring antibodies following natural infection (ie. Contracted COVID-19). An S antibody test (Spike protein of SARS-CoV-2) measures antibodies produced after vaccination and/or natural infection.
• If you are looking to detect whether you have antibodies from natural infection, we recommend an N antibody test.
• If you are looking to find out if you have antibodies after your vaccine, we recommend an S antibody test.
How do I understand my Antibody test result?
The antibody test report provides two different readings for two different types of antibodies; IgM and IgG.
What is IgM?
IgM is a particular type of antibody that is produced within two to twenty-one days after infection or vaccination. Following this period IgM antibodies are typically not detected.
What is IgG?
IgG is produced at a later stage by the immune system and is typically detected after a month of infection or vaccination. These antibodies are usually detected for a period of 3-6 months.