Covid-19 tests have become mandatory for various things such as travel, work, etc. There are multiple ways to get tested for covid, and therefore, it can sometimes be confusing to understand which test is proper for you. Not every covid-19 test is the same and has different properties.
For example, one test determines whether you have had covid in the past, and another one checks if you still have the disease. Nevertheless, getting tested for covid is a crucial step that no one should skip. If you want to get tested, Ham Lake testing center offers numerous testing options.
Types of Covid-19 Tests
- Rapid antigen test.
A rapid antigen test is a test that is used to diagnose covid by detecting an active infection from SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes covid-19. These tests look for antigens that are found on the outside of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
The primary goal of an antigen test is to determine whether or not you have covid-19. These tests are quick and cost-effective. Therefore, they are used for testing people in large screening programs to prevent the spread of covid-19.
However, one should remember that rapid antigen tests have a higher chance of indicating a false positive or a false negative result. These tests are only a good option when a PCR or RT-PCR test is not available.
A rapid antigen test is done by collecting a sample by swabbing the inside of your nose. The sample is analyzed, and the results usually arrive on-site within 15 minutes.
- PCR Testing
PCR stands for a polymerase chain reaction. It is a molecular test that checks your upper respiratory specimen for the virus that causes covid-19, SARS-CoV-2. The PCR is considered a gold standard way of detecting covid-19.
Unlike other tests, the PCR can find traces of the virus in your body in the earliest stages of infection. In contrast, other tests may miss the early signs if there are not enough bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens in the sample.
- Antibody testing.
If you have been exposed to covid-19, your body produces antibodies to fight the virus as a part of your immune response. Antibody testing is used to detect those antibodies. This test produces a numerical value that determines whether or not you have antibodies to covid-19.
However, this test cannot tell you if you still have the virus inside you. It only detects the antibodies. Therefore, if you suspect you may have the virus, taking the PCR test is the best option.
In conclusion, the best and accurate test for covid-19 is the PCR test. If the PCR test is not available, then only you should opt for the other two options. Also, remember that no covid-19 test is 100% accurate. The best way to stay shielded is to take precautions and follow the safety measures.
