The second strain of the COVID-19 is spreading its roots in India rapidly. With the healthcare experts claiming to expect the third wave soon, it becomes essential to get tested if any of the symptoms arise. India is following the “Test, Track & Treat” method with a range of COVID-19 tests conducted in numerous clinics. To get accurate and fast results, visit any SpiceHealth clinic or book a slot for home collection. But before making a call, it is vital to know the significance of different types of COVID-19 tests.
Types of COVID-19 Tests & Their Purpose: A Brief Description
In India, three tests are running primarily to detect the symptoms of the Coronavirus. While doctors are taking the responsibility to prescribe a test as the needs of every patient, one can choose the testing process on his own just to make sure. Therefore, every citizen must have all the information about these three tests to get accurate results!
RT-PCR Tests
RT- PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) test is by far the most accurate and reliable process for detecting Coronavirus. It is a molecule testing procedure that is efficient in testing the presence of the virus in the sample taken from any living body. The test detects the RNA (the virus’s genetic material) and converts it into DNA using a reverse transcriptase enzyme. For any patient going through an RT-PCR test, it is vital to know a few things.
- Since it is a time-consuming process of detection and conversion, RT-PCR test results take a minimum of 24 hours.
- One has to give a nasal or throat swab sample for this test.
- The accuracy of this test is the highest of all three options.
- It detects the current presence of the virus in a body but cannot tell if the person has been affected earlier or not.
Antigen Tests
The antigen tests for COVID-19 refer to any viral proteins or foreign matter in the body that effectively triggers the immune system. It is commonly referred to as the rapid testing facility available for emergency purposes. This test is also available at SpiceHealth clinics. However, one should not opt for it unless there is an emergency, given its accuracy may not be reliable at all times. It is also noteworthy to know that:
- Antigen tests may miss out on the active presence of Coronavirus in a living body.
- Throat or nasal swabs are taken as test samples.
- It is a rapid test and shows results in an hour or less.
- The need for an RT-PCR test might still be proposed by doctors to confirm a negative Antigen test report.
Antibody Tests
The antibody test, or commonly known as the Serology blood test, is a process of identifying the presence of COVID-19 antibodies in the blood sample of a person. It does not indicate the active presence of the virus but instead suggests whether or not a person is still carrying its antibodies. It is more like any regular blood test with results given in 1-3 days.
Where To Go For Affordable & Fast Testing Process
Coronavirus is majorly affecting elders and middle-aged people for whom travelling to busy hospitals and clinics is not always possible. Therefore, the best option is to get home tested with the help of a reliable healthcare team. Visit the SpiceHealth website to get a slot booked for home collection or in-clinic COVID-19 tests at affordable medical fees. Get high-quality services and fast results delivered with utmost accuracy!
Waiting for a fever to get worse or neglecting the symptoms until it becomes urgent to get tested is never the right choice! Every one of us has to be active and responsible for our own health to avoid transmitting the virus to others. Contact SpiceHealth for home collection or visit us at the nearest clinic!
Muhammad Aqib