Antibody Tests for COVID-19. What's Their Value?

With COVID-19 testing for the virus being what it is -- in short supply, due to a complete shortage of labs, test staff, kits and supplies, there has been much to do about Antibody Testing. 

See this Seattle-King County Public Health Blog Post on Antibody Testing. It is plainly written for a layperson to understand the technology and the inconclusive nature of such tests at this point.

So, what's wrong with the tests?

• There are many tests out on the market and not all are dependable
• False positives and false negatives for up to 15% in one report are common
• If you do have the antibodies for COVID-19, it might mean nothing
• We don't know if there is immunity from the presence of antibodies
• We don't know if there is immunity -- how long it lasts
• They are not a panacea for replacing COVID-19 virus testing

And the beat goes on ...