Unable to get Antibody test NHS

[azaelea]

I mentioned that I intended to ask my Haematologist if she could arrange an antibody and T cell test with my next blood test. I heard from her yesterday that she’s looked into it in detail but is unable to arrange one through NHS. I shall just have to hope we have a reasonable percentage of protection. Has anyone found out any more information on how we MPNers on our immunosuppressant medication are compromised? I haven’t seen anything further on this. Regards to all, Fran

[piggie50]

Hi Fran,

I asked my Heam on Tuesday about this. She said, this test was not available at my hospital and there were no plans for it as it was very expensive. She advised that we would have to wait for more studies to be done. I have ordered a test kit from Testing for All which Paul mentioned in one of his posts, although I’m not holding out that the results will be helpful or indeed accurate.

Judy

[azaelea in reply to piggie50]

Thank you for your info Judy. I have been trying to reply to you and Chris but for some reason it wouldn’t go through. I think taking on board what Chris says I’ll leave things in abeyance and hope for the best. Look forward to hearing how you get on. Regards Fran

[mhos61 in reply to piggie50]

Hi all.

I have also ordered test kits from ‘Testing for All’ for both my hubby and myself. My husband is immunosuppressed for other reasons.

I will post the results on the forum in a few weeks; had second AZ vaccine yesterday. Bit worn out today.

Enjoy Cornwall Judy, very envious, particularly of the idea of indulging in Cornish pasties. Xx

[JediReject]

Hi Fran, , based on what both you and Judy say I shan't bother enquiring just now. Seems it's only available to select groups such as key or frontline health workers, scientists and maybe those taking part in Covid trials. Not for Joe Public just yet , if ever unless done as some are doing through private companies for a fee. I won't be bothering with that either.

Taking account of my limited knowledge on the subject I'm unsure if it's helpful to know whether one has antibodies or carry on in ignorance because if ones test comes back negative or void post vaccines what then ? Would it some folk become hermits fearful of mixing again.

Or if it comes back positive for antibodies will that send out the wrong signal to some folk to reduce or stop their Covid safety measures.

Maybe it can be done relatively easily but it might be deemed not the right time to introduce it when there's so much going on and the extra pressure o NHS resources.

Stay safe - Chris

[piggie50 in reply to JediReject]

Totally agree with everything you have said Chris. I hope you and the Mrs are both keeping well. xx

[JediReject in reply to piggie50]

Hey Judy, , having said what I did I wouldn't knock anyone for getting a test, , it'still interesting to know where one stands. And like Fran I will be curious if you choose to share your result. Me and my better by far half are ok ish just niggling more than usual I think because of a number of things. Partly its the current restrictions and lockdown fever, my wife is desparate to get her hair sorted and meet up with friends for coffee time etc and I am equally desparate for my club to open its doors so I can partake of the medicinal waters on offer and chill.

Also we are under pressure to help out my wife's older sister who is going for a knee op later this month and will need alot of support. We already do my Dad's shopping and make sure he's ok and do his cleaning , garden etc so Im not sure how much more we can do. Both her son's live away and aren't keen to come to her aid for a week or two.

Ah well enough of my woes I bet you wish you'd not asked 😃 and I bet you've got your little 🎻 out xx

[piggie50 in reply to JediReject]

You know I love chatting to you Chris. 😊 you sound like you’re very busy! Pace yourself and the club will be open soon 🍺. I will let you and Fran know the results of my test, I will do it in about 10 days, although, like you say I don’t know that whatever it reveals it will make any difference to how I behave. I’m due to go to Cornwall in a holiday cottage at the end of April with youngest daughter, her husband and the two youngest grandchildren. I’ve been in a bubble with them ever since it’s been allowed so have no qualms about going. Long walks on the beach and self catering. Cornish pasties, fish and chips and cream teas. 😋 I’m really looking forward to a change of scenery. Take care Chris. xx

[JediReject in reply to piggie50]

That's fab for you Judy , ,a family Staycation is probably just what you need. I'm pleased you're going esp with Grandkids too. In fact I'm envious as I love Devon and Cornwall but I'm not fit enough to drive that distance so if we go it will be a coach trip in safer times. I can almost taste a freshly baked hot Pastie, even though sometimes pastry gives me heartburn I'd risk a few. Have a lovely time I'm sure it will be brilliant.

Chris x

[azaelea in reply to JediReject]

Thanks for your reply Chris. I agree with what you say and I’ve decided to leave things as they are and hope for the best. It’s 3 weeks now since my 2nd Pfizer jab so what will be will be. Take care. Regards Fran