
Viral testing is performed to detect SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid or antigen. A sample is taken from the respiratory system (a swab from your nose and/or throat) to identify if an active infection with the virus that causes COVID-19 is present. Viral tests are recommended to diagnose acute infection. Some tests are point-of-care tests, meaning results may be available at the testing site in less than an hour. These are rapid tests that are not very accurate, and a repeat confirmatory test is often necessary. Other, more accurate tests with fewer false results, are sent to a laboratory to analyze. Turnaround… Continue reading