The Importance of the Antigen COVID Test

The antigen COVID test in Thornhill is administered to detect an active infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19.  These tests look for protein markers or antigens that are found on the exterior of SARS-CoV-2 virus.  The test is on a sample that is collected by swabbing the inside of the nose.  Although samples are often processed in laboratories, they are frequently analyzed on-site for providing near immediate results (usually within 15 to 30 minutes).

Purpose of the Test

The purpose of the antigen COVID test in Thornhill is to determine whether an individual is infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus and has COVID-19.  They are primarily used to screen for the Coronavirus, but in some cases for diagnostic purposes as well:

• Diagnosis is the testing that is administered when an individual is exhibiting symptoms of a disease or has been exposed to one. Molecular testing like the RT-PCR test is seen as the gold standard for diagnosis.  If those tests aren’t available, antigen testing can be employed for diagnosing individuals who exhibit symptoms that are consistent with COVID-19.  However, antigen testing has an elevated risk of indicating false-negatives.

• Screening, on the other hand, refers to looking for a disease in those individuals who haven’t exhibited any signs or symptoms. Since antigen testing is performed quickly and is relatively cost-effective, it is often used in larger screening programs that involve repeated testing of individuals to prevent the SARS-CoV-2 virus from spreading.  This type of screening must be administered cautiously due to the risk of false-positive results.

The antigen COVID test in Thornhill evaluates any indication of a SARS-CoV-2 infection.  It checks for specific antigens or proteins on the exterior of the virus in test samples taken with a nasal swab at the back of the nose.  If these antigens are present, an active infection is present. You will need to isolate and take precautions to safeguard others. This includes wearing a mask.

When is a COVID Antigen Test appropriate?

There are different times that a COVID antigen test is appropriate.  For example, this test is most often used for diagnosis purposes when a PCR test isn’t readily available.  Under these circumstances, a positive test can be used for diagnosing COVID-19 if a person’s symptoms strongly indicate the presence of an infection.  The antigen COVID test in Thornhill is more often used for screening purposes and was designed to prevent the virus from spreading by individuals who are asymptomatic (showing no symptoms).

For more information about COVID antigen testing, call All Health Medical Centre at (866) 837-8447 today. Our business representatives and medical experts are available to clarify doubts and provide you with information about the tests. Call us today.