Types Of COVID-19 Tests

There are a very wide variety of tests for Covid-19 that you can choose from to discover if you have been infected by this annoying virus that stole at least a year of our lives and took the lives of many.

One of the most common types we know about is PCR tests. Yet many people do still not know so much about PCR testing, or the other forms of testing to detect Covid-19. You can learn about the diagnostic tests and other phases of detecting the nature of disease or infection, on this website: https://www.healthytipshotline.com

So, stick around to learn about the other types of Covid-19 tests.

Health Care Provider Tests- PCR

The first test we will look at is health care provider PCR tests, which is usually the one that we think about.

These tests will search from the virus’ RNA in patient samples. Samples as such will be collected by the health care provider inserting a nasopharyngeal swab into the patient’s nostril.

They take cells from the back of their nose.

Some of these associated lab tests can allow a patient to spit into tubes to give a saliva sample instead, but the most common is still the nasal swab.

These tests should be taken upon making an appointment with health care providers if you have symptoms or if you have been exposed to the virus.

Depending on what laboratory your healthcare provider uses, you may receive the results of your test within 24 to 72 hours of taking the test.

PCR tests are the highest standard when it comes to testing for Covid-19.

At-Home Tests- Nasal Swab Test

You can also take at-home nasal swab tests as well. These tests are a lot like the ones used in a health care providers office. The difference being that you collect the swab yourself, and mail it to a laboratory to be analyzed.

These tests should be done once you have been exposed or if you have started developing symptoms.

You could expect test results back over a variation of time. Generally it does take around 2 to 4 days, but it could take longer.

These tests are PCR tests done in a laboratory; they do have more accuracy than antigen tests done at home.

At-Home Tests – Saliva PCR

Similarly you could also do a PCR test on your saliva. This is also similar to the test that is done by your healthcare providers office. However, instead you collect the sample of saliva yourself, and you mail it off to a laboratory for it to be analyzed.

Much like the swab tests, saliva will be a specimen that is collected for a polymerase chain reaction test (PCR test). Saliva is easier and more comfortable for patients to provide in comparison to nasal swabs.

You should use this test after you have been exposed, or once you start showing symptoms of the virus.

Any at home mail away test can take between 2 to 4 days to provide you with results. As they are PCR tests done in a lab, they are still much more accurate than at-home antigen testing.

At-Home (Rapid) Antigen Test

These are the tests that we are referring to as the least accurate.

These tests work by detecting the particular viral proteins inside nasal samples.

Timing is very important with these test kits, thus they must be done on the day of the event in which you are most infectious. This provides the test with the most information on how much of the virus is actually inside your body’s system at that particular time.

These tests are done using a nasal swab and will be able to produce results in just 15 minutes.

They are purchasable wherever at-home tests are sold. They are much faster and cheaper than a PCR test, however, you do also risk getting a higher chance of a false negative as well.

Should an at-home antigen test come up as negative, it is still a good idea to wear a mask in public and exercise caution.

If at home tests come back as positive, you should have a lab-based PCR done on the same day, or the day after to ensure that the case is tracked by public health.

Test Types

There are several main types of tests.

You have viral tests which look for a current infection. These include NAATs (PCR tests) which are done in a lab. They also include antigen tests, which are the rapid at-home tests you can do.

Self testing is a good way to make sure everyone gets tested if they need to, but false negative chances are problematic.

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Libby Austin

Libby Austin, the creative force behind alltheragefaces.com, is a dynamic and versatile writer known for her engaging and informative articles across various genres. With a flair for captivating storytelling, Libby's work resonates with a diverse audience, blending expertise with a relatable voice.
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