PCR, Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAATs), and other molecular amplification tests detect the virus’s genetic material. Molecular tests are the most accurate tests for detecting the virus that causes COVID-19. They can be used whether or not you have symptoms. A positive PCR, NAAT, or other molecular amplification test result means a person currently has COVID-19. They are given with a nasal swab or by taking a saliva sample. Nasal swabs are fast and accurate, and they’re a good option for most people. You may experience a tickling sensation while the swab is in your nose, and after it is removed, you might sneeze or have runny eyes for a moment or two. Health care providers are more likely to use nasopharyngeal swabs that go farther into your nasal cavity, and you may feel more discomfort than when doing an at-home nasal swab self-test.
You can book a COVID-19 PCR Test at ACk Dental and contact us to be tested at a COVID-19 Assessment Centre if you:
Antigen tests, sometimes called rapid tests, look for specific proteins on the surface of the virus. Antigen tests produce results more quickly than other tests. They are given with a nasal swab. A positive antigen test result means a person currently has COVID-19.
Antigen tests are not as sensitive as molecular tests, no matter where they are performed (such as home, clinic, pharmacy). This means that you could have a negative test result even if you are infected with COVID-19.A negative antigen test may require follow-up testing to confirm the result, especially if you have symptoms or were in close contact to someone with COVID- 19. Multiple negative antigen tests mean you can be more sure that you are not infected with the virus that causes COVID-19.