An antibody test is a medical examination that detects the presence of antibodies in the blood. Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system in response to infections, including viruses like COVID-19. This test helps determine if a person has been exposed to a specific pathogen, even if they did not show symptoms. These tests are typically performed using a blood sample, which is analyzed in a laboratory. A positive result indicates that the person has likely been exposed to the pathogen, while a negative result suggests no exposure. However, antibody tests do not confirm current infections and should not replace diagnostic tests.