3 Types of COVID-19 Tests

Now that we’re in the 3rd year of the COVID-19 era, the measures and steps that need to be taken in order to effectively prevent additional outbreaks have become very clear.  These include conscientious prevention measures to help arrest the spread such as:

 

  • contact tracing for individuals who’ve tested positive
  • frequently washing one’s hands, social distancing, and wearing masks
  • widespread testing with quick result turnaround times

 

When combined, these measures yield the best results while we wait for more effective treatments to be developed along with widespread vaccination.

 

Which Tests are the best to use?

 

There are specific tests for diagnosing current infections as well as tests that show the presence of the virus that causes COVID-19, specifically SARS-CoV-2.  The HPFB (the Health Products and Food Branch) has authorized emergency use for COVID-19 tests.  Because the pandemic is considered a public health emergency, this has allowed test manufacturers to market diagnostic tests without having to get formal HPFB approval.

 

Since COVID-19 is a new disease, information about available testing is incomplete because testing options continue to change.  Tests will typically vary where accuracy, convenience, costs, and recommend usage for different age groups are concerned.  But for all intents and purposes, the PCR COVID test in Thornhill is the Gold Standard of The following content discusses the different types of tests.

 

More detailed information is available at the ‘Health Canada’ website.

 

Diagnostic Testing for COVID-19 Infections (current and prior)

 

There are two testing modalities – molecular and antigen – for individuals who want to know whether they’re infected or not.  Molecular tests (often referred to as nucleic acid tests, PCR COVID test in Thornhill, or viral RNA tests), are done with either nasal or throat swabs as well as testing saliva or other different bodily fluids.  So where can you get tested? You have several choices where this is concerned.  You can get tested at home, at a hospital, in a medical office, or even in your vehicle.

 

Molecular tests look for viral-related genetic material.  Depending on the capacity of the specific testing lab, results should be available in 24 to 48 hours. This is a reliable test.

 

Antigen tests can be conducted at a doctor’s office, at a hospital, or in your home.  You can usually get results from these tests within 30 minutes or less.

 

Antibody or serology tests determine if you’ve been previously infected.  Testing can be done in a doctor’s office, hospital, or lab.  Results are usually available in 30 minutes or less.

 

To learn more about COVID-19 testing or to schedule a PCR COVID test in Thornhill at home, call All Health Medical Centre today at (866) 837-8447. Our representatives are available to take your calls.