Want to get a free COVID-19 antibody test? Here’s how.

The Blood Center is hosting a blood drive at the St. Tammany Cancer Center, 1203 S. Tyler Street in Covington, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. today, Friday, July 10, 2020. (Photo by Mike Scott / STHS)

By STHS Communication Department

Give, the adage goes, and you shall receive.

The Blood Center is making good on the promise of that statement today (Friday, July 10) with a blood drive at the St. Tammany Cancer Center, which is just across South Tyler Street from St. Tammany Parish Hospital in Covington.

In addition to the traditional blood donor T-shirt, every successful donor at the Cancer Center blood drive will receive a free COVID-19 antibody test, which can tell you whether or not you previously contracted the novel coronavirus.

(Note: Antibody tests are not intended to detect active cases of COVID-19. Anyone who suspects they are currently suffering from COVID should remain socially isolated and call their primary care physician, who can arrange for a test to determine if they are currently infected. Anyone who doesn’t currently have a primary care physician should call 985-898-4000 to arrange further evaluation.)

Today’s blood drive, which includes two Bloodmobiles, is scheduled for 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Walk-in donors are welcome, but to facilitate social distancing, it is recommended that prospective donors schedule an appointment before arriving. Appointments, as well as more information, can be scheduled at the Blood Center website.