There is a lot of confusing and contradictory information about the COVID virus and its testing. People have concerns like whether they should book a PCR test at home, go for a DIY testing kit, or get tested from a clinic. But we are all clear about a few things. COVID tests are a precautionary measure that we are supposed to take along with getting vaccinated, wearing a mask, and maintaining a physical distance. These tests are means to protect you and others by reducing the chance of spreading the virus.
To clear the confusion surrounding COVID testing and to spread the right information, here are some facts that deserve your attention:
1: Three Types of COVID Tests Are Available
There are three types of COVID-19 tests available:
- PCR test (also known as a nucleic acid)
- Antigen (rapid) test
- Antibody Test
We all know what a PCR test is. Let’s talk about others. A rapid test is used to diagnose a person with a current SARS-CoV-2 infection. An antibody test, on the other hand, is used to determine if someone has been previously infected with the virus.
If you have COVID-19 symptoms, ideally, get a PCR test done. if you are not sick but have had unprotected and close contact with someone and a PCR test is not accessible, you can always go for a rapid test. It’s totally safe to perform this test at home.
2: A Negative COVID Test Doesn’t Always Mean You Are Safe.
If your COVID-19 test is negative, chances are you are not infected at the time the sample was taken. Hence, it’s not recommended to get tested too soon after being exposed to the coronavirus. The evidence of infection may not show up on the test. You should continue to watch out for symptoms.
Also, just because you tested negative for the coronavirus today doesn’t imply you won’t get infected later or that you’re immune to COVID-19.
3: Rapid Antigen Tests Are Reliable
Some people are still skeptical about the accuracy of an antigen test. The truth is, these tests are just as reliable as the PCR test. In fact, they offer the most accurate results when your body is loaded with the virus. This is when you’re in the early stage of the infection.
4: An Antibody Test Should Be Used for Diagnosing the Current Infection
Also known as the serology test, this test detects the presence of COVID antibodies in your blood. This test only indicates if you had any past infections. It shouldn’t be used for diagnosing a current infection. It basically helps to determine how your immune system is defending against the virus.
5: You Don’t Need Health Insurance or a Primary Care Provider to Get Tested
You don’t need health insurance to get a PCR test done. These days, some websites are offering free testing services too and they don’t need any documentation. Similarly, you can still get tested for COVID-19 if you don’t have a primary care provider. Many healthcare clinics are giving a test now. You can always buy an antigen test kit and perform it at home.
6: Herd Immunity Won’t End the Virus. We Still Need to Be Vaccinated
Herd immunity is a concept that refers to when enough people in a population develop immunity to a virus or an infectious disease, from surviving the sickness or from receiving a vaccination.
In the case of COVID, herd immunity won’t end the disease. Allowing people to contract COVID-19 would make them seriously ill. They might even experience long-term organ damage. Some can even die before they develop herd immunity.
The immunity from the vaccination lasts longer than the immunity from the virus itself. Therefore, it’s important to get vaccinated.
7: A Positive Antibody Test Doesn’t Mean You’re Immune to COVID
A positive antibody test does not protect against the virus. People who have recovered from COVID-19 can still get infected. Antibody testing should not be used to determine if it is safe to return to or enter group settings such as workplaces, schools, or hostels.
8: Not Everyone Needs to Be Tested
You don’t necessarily have to get yourself tested unless in the following scenarios:
- You have symptoms of the virus
- You have closely interacted with someone who had a confirmed COVID case for more than 15 minutes
- Your doctor, local, or state healthcare department has asked for a test
9: It’s Best to Isolate Yourself While You’re Waiting for Your Test Results
If you have had contact with someone who has COVID-19, stay at home and keep a safe distance from others for 14 days. Continue to watch out for symptoms. If the symptoms (cough, headache, fever, diarrhea) show, get tested immediately.
While you wait for the results of your test, wait at home. Ideally, isolate yourself and avoid social gatherings. If you have to go to a public place for some reason, always wear a mask.
10: The Results of PCR Tests Come in 24 to 48 Hours
PCR tests performed at other hospitals, pharmacies and clinics will take 24 to 48 hours to return. If you need faster results, go for an antigen test.