Free COVID-19 Antibody Testing Coming To Forest Hills This Month

FOREST HILLS, QUEENS — Forest Hills residents can get a free COVID-19 antibody test in the neighborhood this month.

On Sunday, Dec. 19th, the team from Valhalla Medics will be at the Bukharian Jewish Community Center located at 106-16 70th Avenue in Forest Hills, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., to provide free COVID-19 antibody tests to the community.

This event is the latest in a COVID-19 antibody testing series sponsored by Forest Hills' State Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr., who says that the events have proven popular in the past.

"The last event we held in Belle Harbor brought out 70 people to get their antibody tests," he said in a news statement, adding that it's important for people to get antibody testing even after being vaccinated.

The rapid IgG/IgM antibody test, which is done by pricking a patient's finger for a small drop of blood, takes about 10-minutes total, and can help people learn more about their body and COVID-19.

For instance, the test can detect and differentiate between the presence of the short term (IgM) and the long-term (IgG) antibodies, meaning that it can show antibodies from the COVID-19 vaccine, determine if you've had the virus in the past, and show a current COVID-19 infection.

Even if a person is vaccinated, there is a small chance that they can still contract the virus and spread it to others; many health and city official have recommended regular COVID-19 testing, especially during the holiday season and amid a recent uptick in citywide COVID cases.

The event is free and doesn't require insurance, but Addabbo encouraged constituents to register in advance by calling his office at 718-738-1111. That being said, walk-ups will also be welcomed at the event.