Many tests for COVID-19 include taking a swab sample from the back of the nose or throat. But some tests need a blood sample.

These tests aim to determine if a person has, or has ever had, an infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2).

An antigen or molecular test can tell whether a person has the infection, regardless of symptoms.

An antibody or serological test determines whether your body has antibodies to the infection. It can’t show whether a person has an infection. However, if antibodies are present, it suggests that the body has dealt with SARS-CoV-2.

Currently, more than 416,000,000 tests have been carried out in the United States. More than 8.25% of the results have been positive.

This article explores how COVID-19 tests work, which ones are available when you have a test, and how to find one.

I had earlier shared What To Do If You Think You Have Coronavirus? I hope you read.

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How do the tests work?

There are many ways to test for proof of the virus. A person has one of the following types of COVID-19 tests.

Molecular tests

Molecular tests look for symptoms of infection. A molecular test for the infection that causes COVID-19 is a polymerase chain reaction test. It is called a nucleic acid amplification test.

A person performing a molecular test takes a sample from the back of the nose, the throat using a long cotton swab. A person also takes their swab sample at home.

RT-PCR test

It includes a healthcare expert collecting a sample and sending it to a lab for testing. The study can detect signs of the virus’s material in the sample.

This RT-PCR test can confirm a diagnosis of COVID-19 if it identifies two specific SARS-CoV-2 genes. However, if it identifies one, it will produce an inconclusive result.

Serological tests

These identify antibodies the body produces to fight SARS-CoV-2. The antibodies are present in the blood and tissues of those who have recovered from COVID-19.

Serological tests require a blood sample. While they are indicators of a past SARS-CoV-2 infection, these tests may detect antibodies produced to fight another type of covid-19. However, if the result is positive, it does not mean that the person has had COVID-19.

Read: Vaccines Covid 19: Is It Safe To Take?

Where can you get a test?

To get started, you’ll need to know: First Symptoms Of Covid-19: All You Should To Know

In the united state, tests are available at health centers and pharmacies in every state. Some areas have dedicated testing centers. In addition, workplaces, schools, and other organizations may have testing programs.

The tests are free of charge to everyone. But a person gets their test as part of a doctor’s visit, and there may be costs.

Some people need a prescription for a test, and some tests are available in particular locations. For example, an at-home test may produce a result right away, or a person sends their sample to a laboratory for analysis. In many cases, a collection service is also available.

Not all types of tests are suitable for everyone. Contact a healthcare expert or visit the local health department’s website and confirm which type of test is suitable for you.

When should you get tested?

As per the CDC note, a person should consider testing if:

They have symptoms of cough or fever.
They have lived in a place that is dangerous, such as a crowded train.
Their healthcare department or authority asks them to have a test.

I recommend you to read following posts that will help you: Is A Dry Cough A Symptom Of Covid-19?

People do not need any test if:

They are vaccinated against COVID-19, even if they have had exposure to someone with the infection.
They have tested COVID-19 positive and recovered from the virus within the last three months — except they develop new symptoms.

Conclusion

Access to testing abilities has expanded in some countries across the last year. In the united state, testing options are now available.

The two main types are diagnostic tests involving a swab, and antibody tests, which require a blood test sample. A diagnostic test shows if a person has a SARS-CoV-2 infection, and an antibody test shows if people have had one in the past and recovered.

In the united state, who needs a test can access one for free. They can find out how to do this from their health department.

How Do They Test For Coronavirus?: Let’s Know About It

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