MIAMI — Florida Governor Ron DeSantis gave an update from Miami Wednesday regarding the state's response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
DeSantis said so far, the state has received 200,000 COVID-19 antibody tests that are currently being distributed, and hopes to have drive-thru antibody testing readily available for anyone who may need it. He says they will start the antibody testing this week.
He mentioned that the testing will be coming to Jacksonville soon and will take likely take place at the state testing facility at Lot J. He said they will add a lane to the already established site for those specifically looking to get tested for COVID-19 antibodies.
The antibody test shows if you've already had the coronavirus. The CDC explains it as "Antibodies can be found in the blood of people who are tested after infection and show that people have had an immune response to the infection."
The test will help determine how many people have had COVID-19 since some people never shown symptoms.
DeSantis says it is a simple blood test. They put the blood on a strip, add reagent, and then you get results in 10 to 15 minutes. First responders and health care workers will get access to the tests first since they've had access to COVID-19 patients.
While the governor did mention the potential for antibodies to determine your immunity from COVID-19, the CDC says they do not yet know if having the COVID-19 antibodies will actually prevent future infections. They are still doing studies on antibodies and immunity.
He also unveiled plans regarding a mobile testing lab that will be deployed in the state starting this week.
The lab will provide 45-minute rapid tests with about 3,500 tests will be available each week. The governor says long term care facilities will be serviced by the lab first.
On Tuesday he said he's working with his wife, First Lady Casey DeSantis, to lift all limits on behavioral health and mental services through Medicaid during the COVID-19 pandemic. He says this will help lift the burden placed on many individuals with mental health issues during these tough times.