

Antigen tests produce results faster than other tests.

Saliva tests may not be a good option for those with low saliva production, such as very young children or those who have suffered a stroke.Īntigen tests, sometimes called rapid tests, look for specific proteins on the surface of the virus. Most people need 10 to 12 minutes to make enough spit to fill the tube. You will spit multiple times into a funnel attached to a tube, and then screw on a cap to complete the test.
Corona testing how to#
Saliva test: Saliva tests are self-administered this means that after you are shown how to perform the test, you will do it by yourself.The swab is then removed and sent to a lab for testing. It is inserted about two inches into your nose and swirled around for a few seconds. Nasal swab: A nasal swab looks like a long Q-tip.Molecular tests are performed by collecting a nasal swab or a saliva sample.A positive PCR or other molecular amplification test result means a person currently has COVID-19.They can be used whether or not you have symptoms.However, antigen tests are less reliable than molecular tests for negative results. Both molecular and antigen tests (rapid tests) are very accurate and reliable for positive results. Molecular tests are the most accurate tests for detecting the virus that causes COVID-19.Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), including PCR, detect the virus's genetic material. However, those who work in health care and long-term care should follow testing recommendations specific to those settings. It generally is not recommended that people get tested again after getting a positive result. Refer to If You Are Sick or Test Positive: COVID-19 for information on how long to stay home and how long to wear a mask around others. You should follow the recommendations for staying at home even if you have a second test that is negative.

If you get a positive test result, you should stay home and away from others (isolate). If you have questions about which test is right for you, talk to a health care provider.Ī positive viral COVID-19 test (molecular or antigen test) means the person who took the test has COVID-19 and can spread it to others. There are two types of diagnostic tests: molecular and antigen. Viral tests, sometimes called diagnostic tests, can detect if you have SARS-CoV-2 infection, the virus that causes COVID-19. Testing for past infection Testing for current infection
