What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing symptoms like ongoing cough, fever, fatigue, chest pain, or flu-like illness that hasn't gone away, especially if you live in or have visited the Southwestern United States, Mexico, or parts of Central or South America. It checks for antibodies your body makes when fighting a fungal infection called coccidioidomycosis, also known as Valley Fever. It's especially useful if you've had unexplained pneumonia symptoms that didn't improve with typical treatment.

What's included in this test?

This test looks for antibodies your immune system produces in response to a fungal infection, using a first-round screening method followed by confirmation testing when needed. The confirmation step matters because a single positive screen can sometimes be a false alarm, so a second, more specific method double-checks the finding. Together, these steps give a more reliable picture of whether you've been exposed to this particular fungus.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with a clear explanation of what each value means and whether it falls in the normal or abnormal range. If your initial screen comes back positive or unclear, the lab automatically runs follow-up confirmation testing, so you may see additional results appear. If your results are negative but your symptoms continue, retesting in 2 to 6 weeks is a reasonable next step since early infection can sometimes be missed. You can download a standard lab report anytime and use the trends feature to track results if you test again later.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for anyone with persistent respiratory symptoms or pneumonia-like illness who lives in or has recently traveled to a region where this fungus is common in the soil. It's also useful for people whose symptoms haven't responded to typical antibiotics, since fungal infections don't respond to those treatments. If you work outdoors, do construction, or have other soil exposure in these areas, this test can help explain unresolved symptoms.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being collected. This timeframe allows for the initial screening step and, if needed, the additional confirmation testing to be completed accurately. You'll be notified as soon as your results are available in your account.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms include a cough that won't go away, fatigue, fever, night sweats, chest pain, and general body aches that resemble the flu or pneumonia. Some people also notice joint pain or a skin rash. If these symptoms started after time spent in dusty or dry areas of the Southwest, that's an added reason to consider testing.

How can I naturally support recovery from a fungal infection like this?

Rest, staying well hydrated, and eating a nutrient-rich diet can help your immune system do its job while your body clears the infection. Avoiding further dust or soil exposure in high-risk areas can prevent reinfection or worsening symptoms. Getting enough sleep and managing stress also support a healthy immune response, though these steps are supportive and not a replacement for monitoring your symptoms.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means antibodies were detected, suggesting your body has been exposed to or is currently fighting this fungal infection. Because other fungal illnesses can sometimes cause similar antibody patterns, the confirmation testing (ID and CF) helps make the finding more reliable. If your result is positive, it's a good idea to keep track of your symptoms and consider follow-up testing to watch how things change over time.

What does a negative result mean?

A negative result means no antibodies were found at the time of testing, which usually suggests no current infection. However, antibodies can take time to develop, so a negative result early in an illness doesn't fully rule things out. If your symptoms persist, retesting in a few weeks can help catch an infection that was too early to detect the first time.

How often should I retest?

If your first test was negative but you still have symptoms, retesting 2 to 6 weeks later is generally recommended since antibody levels take time to rise. If you've already tested positive, your results can be tracked over time using the trends feature to see how your antibody levels change as you recover. Otherwise, this isn't a test most people need on a routine or repeated basis.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Coccidioides Antibody Test - Valley Fever Screening

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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