Testing rates decreased for a time once vaccines became available and the numbers of new cases started to decline. However, new variants and a desire to return to a semblance of normal life have increased the demand for tests again.
There are more options for testing now than there were at the start of the pandemic. Lab testing is still available, but new types of at-home tests have made testing easier. Not every test is created equal, though, and there are pros and cons to each type of COVID-19 test.
This article will review the different COVID-19 tests and the benefits and drawbacks of each.
PCR Test
Polymer chain reaction (PCR) tests are typically performed in a laboratory or healthcare setting. Using a swab, you or a technician will collect a sample of cells from your nose, mouth, or throat.
After collection, the samples are treated with an enzyme solution and examined under extreme amplification (copied multiple times). The technique allows test centers to identify the exact genetic materials in the sample, including the identity of a specific virus. The test can also differentiate between different variants—or strains—of a virus.
Since the tests examine microscopic bits of a virus’s genetic material, they are highly reliable—often close to 100%.
The downfall of the process is the time that it takes and the fact that lab analysis is required to get results. The average turnaround time for PCR test results is two to three days after the lab received your sample.
There are also a few options for nucleic acid amplification tests that can be used at outpatient clinics and can provide a result in about 20 minutes. These tests look for nucleic acid from the virus instead of antigen.
Rapid Test
Rapid antigen tests look for pieces of the viral proteins from the SARS-CoV-2 virus (antigens) that causes COVID-19 rather than genetic material (nucleic acid from the virus). These tests are quick and are often used to detect other viruses that cause illnesses like the flu, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
The FDA has approved several rapid antigen tests for COVID-19 because they offer a more simple and accessible option for testing. They can also produce results in under an hour.
Antigen tests are not as sensitive as PCR-based or other nucleic acid amplification tests. PCR tests can detect the COVID-19 virus nearly 100% of the time. Antigen tests can only detect the virus in about 80% of people with COVID-19 symptoms and less than half of the people who take the test when they have no symptoms.
Disinfect the surface you plan on opening the testing kit. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Open testing materials only when you’re ready to use them. Follow manufacturer instructions for collecting your nasal (or saliva) sample and completing the test. Wait the instructed amount of time before reading your test results. Do not reuse your testing materials. Throw away all testing materials and disinfect all surfaces.
Which Test Should You Use?
There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to which COVID-19 test is best. There is a time and place for each type, and which one you choose will depend on your situation and symptoms.
For example, if you are sick and wondering whether your symptoms could be caused by COVID-19, a rapid test can give you that answer quickly. That’s helpful because it would allow you to isolate yourself from other people to help reduce the spread of the virus.
However, if you do not have symptoms or you’re simply taking a test before an event to make sure that you’re not sick, a rapid antigen test may not be able to give you the most accurate result.
People who are symptomatic who need testing before a medical procedure, people who are testing because they were exposed to someone with COVID-19, or people who remain sick despite numerous negative rapid tests are the best candidates for PCR testing. While this type of testing takes longer and is more expensive than rapid tests, it can provide you with the most accurate result.
Summary
The COVID-19 test that you choose will depend on how you are feeling, why you are taking a test, and how vulnerable the people around you are to getting sick. If you need immediate results, a rapid antigen test might be the best option. However, if you need the most accurate test, or you are still sick and want to validate your rapid test result, PCR is the better choice.
If you have questions about COVID-19 testing, symptoms, or treatment, talk to your doctor or another trusted healthcare provider.
The information in this article is current as of the date listed, which means newer information may be available when you read this. For the most recent updates on COVID-19, visit our coronavirus news page.
