The Ultimate Guide to the Different Types of COVID-19 Tests
We’re a little over two years into a global pandemic that’s turned everything upside down, and most of us are still making choices we never had to consider before 2020. Not just the makeup looks for our Zoom calls or face mask designs we desire, but also which types of COVID tests are the best! Accuracy, easiness, comfort levels, and more must be considered when looking at COVID test types, along with the situation at hand. Those returning to their jet-setting lifestyle are accustomed to nasal swabs and PCR, while family reunions and friend hangouts call for the events testing that Youth Haus provides. There are many different types of COVID tests that cater to unique circumstances and social situations, and we’re helping you decide which one is right for you. Here’s the ultimate guide to all the different types of COVID tests!
Rapid Antigen Tests
Perhaps the most common of the COVID test types? Rapid antigen tests – a quick and convenient way to protect yourself and your loved ones. The appeal of these tests is right there in the name, with a person receiving their results only 15-30 minutes after nasal swab collection. The quick results make the rapid antigen tests a top pick amongst the different types of COVID tests, and a go-to for a variety of situations. Think quick health checks, travel, parties, and corporate events. How does it work, exactly? Your nasal swab sample is scanned for specific antigens of SARS-CoV-2 present in the human nasopharynx, which determines whether you’re currently infected with COVID-19.
Since the start of the pandemic, some have questioned the accuracy of the rapid antigen tests due to their quick process. However, we’re here to calm your concerns. These tests have been proven highly accurate for all, especially younger individuals. A study by John Hopkins Medicine showed that rapid antigen tests were “high in sensitivity (ability to identify people for whom the PCR test would detect a SARS-CoV-2 infection) at 92.7% for all participants.” Rest assured, you’re always getting an accurate result with a rapid antigen test at Youth Haus.
PCR Tests
Polymerase chain reaction, also known as PCR, is one of the types of COVID tests that nearly everybody has received at some point. They have been described by many publications, including Yale Medicine, as the most accurate of the COVID test types due to high sensitivity and specificity, and consist of your nasal swab or saliva sample is analyzed in a laboratory. Science detects the presence of RNA, the genetic material that derives from the virus, within your sample and tells you whether you currently have COVID-19. While waiting time is dependent on the laboratory’s bandwidth and processes, most PCR tests will provide your results within a few days, and nearly always in under a week. Youth Haus makes an effort to get your PCR results over to you as quickly as possible, while also providing same-day results for an additional charge.
Antibody Tests
Of all the different types of COVID tests, the Antibody test is one of the only techniques that collect a drop of your blood as opposed to saliva or nasal swabs. But don’t worry, it’s still extremely quick and relatively painless. A simple prick can determine whether you’ve had COVID-19 in the past, as this test scans fore presence of antibodies that your body creates after becoming infected with the virus. Since the symptoms of COVID-19 vary by individual, it’s very possible that you could have become infected over previous months or years and not even known it! This technique is one of the COVID test types that puts your mind at ease, even if you’re no longer contagious, and is often used in the medical space. Get an antibody test today at Youth Haus to try one of the most innovative types of COVID tests.
At-Home Tests
An increasing number of brands are beginning to sell at-home rapid antigen and PCR tests, which provide an affordable and effective solution for those just learning about the different types of COVID tests. You collect your nasal swab or saliva sample and use the testing gear to get your results in minutes! While these tests have been proven to be highly accurate for the most part, you should also ensure that you’re completing the process correctly. While medical professionals have been trained to properly collect the sample, those completing at-home tests must take extra caution to avoid a false positive or negative. Strictly follow the instructions on the box to ensure that you swirl the swab around your nose the proper times, and don’t leave the sample in the blue liquid too long. Timers, gloves, and attention to detail are your friends when it comes to at-home COVID tests.
Next: How To Boost Your Immunity