Coronavirus test is a diagnostic measure that identifies the presence of novel Coronavirus in the human body. This test is performed to show if the person is carrying the virus or not.
Who should be subjected to Coronavirus Test?
- As per CDC guidelines, the following are the cases that are recommended for coronavirus testing.
- Those who show COVID-19 symptoms
- People who have been exposed to those carrying the virus
- People who went out to the gatherings apart from their immediate family members
- Those people who travel frequently and are not vaccinated. It is recommended to have a coronavirus test 1-3 days before your trip. CDC also restricted those people traveling who are not vaccinated.
What are the Types of Coronavirus Test?
Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends performing a Coronavirus test most commonly known as a nasopharyngeal swab for COVID-19. In this test particular cotton swab is inserted in the nostrils and this moved around for around 10-15 seconds.
Coronavirus nasopharyngeal swab test is harmless and but it can be uncomfortable at times. The cotton swab is then taken to the lab for testing which indicates the presence of coronavirus. This cotton swab test is also done via mouth or throat.
How Coronavirus Test Works?
After getting the required swab sample, the SARS-COV-2 infection test is determined. There are several other tests performed to find if the virus is actually present in the person. Here are a few of these tests.
- RT-PCR Test
This test involves a healthcare professional collecting the sample from you in a form of a cotton swab. This is then taken to the labs for further analysis to confirm the viral genetic material in the sample.
PCR test also confirms the diagnosis of COVID-19 as it confirms 2 particular types of COVID genes.
- Molecular Test
A molecular test is performed to rule out the signs of infection. A special type of molecular test done for the COVID-19 virus is called a real-time polymerase chain reaction test which is often known as a nucleic acid amplification test.
In order to perform Molecular Test, a healthcare professional will require to collect a sample from the back of the throat or nose using a 6-inch cotton swab. The samples can also be collected at home.
- Antigen Tests
Also known as the Lateral Flow Test which is performed to detect proteins secreted by the virus. This is a faster type of coronavirus test which people can take at home using a small device similar to what of used for a pregnancy test.
In this test, the sample is collected in a cotton swab is dipped inside a vial of fluid. This cotton swab which is now slightly soaked is now inserted into that small device.
Gradually the fluid spreads through the device and the line would appear on the screen mentioning if you have done the test accurately.
After sometime around 10-15 minutes, as a part of the test, another line appears which is the indication for “Positive”.
If the second line does not appear, that means the test result is negative. A molecular test is the type of coronavirus test that only diagnoses the current infections and cannot confirms whether a person who had COVID-19 virus is now recovered.
- Serological Tests
Serological test is performed to detect the presence of antibodies that are produced to fight SARS-CoV-2. These antibodies are usually present in the blood and tissues of the person who has recovered from coronavirus.
Serological test requires a blood sample that efficiently not only detects coronavirus infection but also confirms if the antibodies are fighting off these viruses.
If the test is positive, this does not confirm whether the person has coronavirus.
Where Can You Get Coronavirus Test?
In every state of the US and other countries, Coronavirus tests are done at health centers or local pharmacies. Some particular areas have their facilities to perform these tests like workplaces, schools, and other organizations.
Most of the time, these tests are done free of charge despite one’s insurance status. If you visit a doctor, it will charge you some fee.
In some parts of the world, Coronavirus test requires a doctor’s prescription, and these tests are done at only certain locations.
Is Coronavirus Test Accurate?
No medical test is 100% accurate and this fact is ruled out by the FDA.
It is possible to get false-negative or false-positive results from coronavirus tests which may result if a person has done these tests inaccurately or took them too soon after viral exposure.
If someone is tested positive for a coronavirus test, there is the highest possibility he/she might have COVID-19. This demands precautions like isolation and symptomatic treatments.
If a person has symptoms even after testing negative for coronavirus test, they must also be isolated for some time until the 2nd test.
RT-PCT Test is more accurate than the Antigen test, according to the FDA upon getting a negative result from an antigen test while a person experiencing symptoms, it is recommended that they should have an RT-PCT test to confirm and self-isolate.
If you have been tested negative for coronavirus test and you are experiencing no symptoms, you may not need to isolate but it is mandatory to wear a face mask in public and continue social distancing tactics to avoid any exposure to the virus.
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David has had over 20 years of experience in sports and physical exercise. He utilizes scientific methods such as progressive overload and macro calculations Health Shape.
