Home testing for Covid is now very common and it was bound to become popular. Since the virus spreads easily people did not want to go near other people who had come to get tested. This type of home-testing procedure naturally picked up very quickly.
Let’s read more about them starting with their advantages:
- Quick results: Get a Covid-19 test before you travel and on your arrival. Prevent the spread of the virus by knowing when to quarantine yourself and avoid bringing it home by getting the results quickly.
- Easier for the little ones: The nasal swab test can produce a significant amount of discomfort, especially for children, though it’s understandable that the test can not be avoided. However, at-home testing makes this process much easier on your child and also creates a familiar environment in which they are less stressed and worried.
- Privacy: One of the biggest benefits of at-home Covid testing is the privacy afforded by this type of drug test. These tests are private and discreet, which appeals to those with a need for greater privacy.
- Transportation issues: In-home testing is the perfect option for someone who might have accessibility challenges or transportation issues. It can be done when you’re home and doesn’t require you to leave your house!
What Types Of COVID -19 Tests Can You Get In Your Home?
There are two kinds of tests that can diagnose Covid-19 infection, both of which can be performed by a medical professional at your home. Even though there was speculation about the home tests at first, people gradually started trusting the system.
People who went through reliable covid testing by Dr. Mani Zadeh realized the importance and convenience of these home tests. Kindly note that we are not including home testing kits in the tests done at home due to their high rate of failure and inaccuracy.
RT-PCR
- RT-PCR tests are popular for their accuracy, making them less likely to result in any false positives or negatives.
- RT-PCR tests analyze fluids from within your sinus cavity for genetic material to see if it contains the SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19) virus.
- Your nasal swab sample will be taken and it will be further sent to a lab for accurate analysis.
- Your result will most probably be disclosed within 3 business days or even less.
Antigen (also called ‘rapid test’)
- The antigen test looks for proteins that can be identified. These proteins are usually found on the surface of this type of virus.
- You can choose to have this test administered either as a nasal swab or a throat swab.
- There is no waiting time for your results. Most people can receive their lab results 15 minutes after they submit their blood samples.
How Accurate Are Covid Tests?
Covid-19 at-home tests are quite accurate. Though it is important to note that there is variability in their result, specifically for the different test types.
RT-PCR is a test that is the most accurate for detecting active infection in Covid-19. The Antigen Test is a little less accurate and its only flaw may be the detection of past infections. When it comes to looking for active infections, the Antibody Test should be used.
How precise the accuracy depends on the test itself as well as which lab-created it. You may wish to contact the manufacturer or visit their website for additional information.
How Long Do The Results Take?
The waiting time simply depends on the kinds of tests you opt for.
- The RT-PCR test and the Antigen test have a longer process. The samples need to be shipped to a lab (as discussed before) and thus it takes around 3 business days. Though this time can be cut short and can also be done in a single day if things are super-efficient.
- The rapid antigen test is done on the spot and the results are mostly given within 10-20 minutes depending on the efficiency and availability of the right tools.
The home tests for Covid have many benefits and can easily be booked for yourself and your family members. Even though people believe that having so many private bodies conducting tests might put pressure on the whole system but it has in fact helped the government deal with the situation in a much more efficient manner.
This article is published by our independent team of health and wellness pundits that publish original and informative content to empower readers to take charge of their health and embark on a physically, mentally, and emotionally balanced lifestyle.
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