SARS-CoV-2 is a new coronavirus that causes COVID-19. COVID-19 typically causes mild to moderate symptoms, although severe disease has been reported.
Several different diagnostic procedures can detect COVID-19. Viral diagnostics, including molecular and antigen testing, can identify current infections. Meanwhile, you may learn if you’ve had the new coronavirus by taking an antibody test.
In the following sections, we’ll describe the types of Walgreens Covid Testing in greater depth. We’ll examine the methods, time, and findings’ reliability. Read on for details.
Types of Walgreens Covid Testing
Molecular tests for COVID-19
Current infection with the novel coronavirus can be diagnosed using the molecular test for COVID-19. Alternative names for this sort of examination include:
- Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test
- Nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT)
- Reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) test
How is the test done?
The existence of the novel coronavirus’s genetic material can be detected through molecular testing using specialised probes. Multiple viral genes can be seen by numerous molecular assays rather than just one, greatly increasing their sensitivity.
Nasal or throat swabs are typically used to gather samples for molecular assays. Saliva samples acquired using tube spitting can also be used for certain molecular studies.
The following institutions and others may offer molecular testing: hospitals, urgent care centres, health clinics, pharmacies, at-the-house, and community-based Walgreens Covid Testing stations.
When can I expect my results?
Results from molecular tests may take a while to get back. Some point-of-care tests take 15–45 minutes to deliver findings. Samples sent to a lab can take one to three days to return.
How accurate is this test?
It has been determined that the molecular test is the “gold standard” for diagnosing COVID-19. For instance, a Cochrane review reported that molecular tests properly diagnosed 95.1% of COVID-19 cases in 2021.
If you have COVID-19 symptoms and a positive molecular test, you probably have it. Test results are usually final and require no further testing.
A negative result on a molecular test could be a false negative. Inaccuracies in sample collection, transport, or processing aren’t the only things that can affect results; timing also matters.
If tested within the first 5 days following exposure, you may get a false-negative result since the virus’ genetic material is not yet detectable.
In the upper respiratory tract, viral genetic material decreases rapidly during the first week of sickness, making Walgreens Covid Testing too late. This means waiting until the last minute to get tested can result in a false-negative reading.
These considerations highlight the importance of getting tested as soon as possible after having symptoms of COVID-19.
Antigen tests for COVID-19
The antigen test is another way to check for the presence of Covid-19, the same as the molecular test. You may also come across the term “COVID-19 rapid test” to describe this analysis.
How is the test done?
To detect viral infection, an antigen test looks for virus biomarkers. Antibodies employed in the antigen test will bind to any novel coronavirus antigens present, indicating a positive result.
Nasal swabs are typically used to collect samples for antigen testing. Antigen testing is available in several settings, including hospitals, walk-in clinics, health departments, pharmacies, at the house, and even community-based Walgreens Covid Testing facilities.
When can I expect my results?
Molecular testing takes longer than antigen tests. Result wait times range from 15 to 30 minutes.
How accurate is this test?
Compared to molecular tests, the accuracy of antigen tests is far lower. According to the same 2021 Cochrane study, antigen tests correctly identified COVID-19 in 72% of patients with symptoms and 58% of those without.
As with molecular tests, taking an antigen test too soon after contracting the new coronavirus can result in a false negative.
A molecular test may be needed to confirm a negative antigen test, especially if you have COVID-19 symptoms.
Antibody tests for COVID-19
You can find out if you’ve had COVID-19 before by taking an antibody test. This kind of analysis is also known as a serology test or a serological analysis.
How is the test done?
The purpose of a blood test for antibodies is to detect the presence of antibodies against the new coronavirus. The immune system produces proteins called antibodies in reaction to foreign invaders or immunisations.
The time it takes for your body to start making antibodies is between one and three weeks. Antibody testing, in contrast to the two viral tests mentioned above, cannot, therefore, aid in diagnosing a present infection with the new coronavirus.
You can have this Walgreens Covid Testing in various settings, including hospitals, urgent care centres, health clinics, pharmacies, and even your house.
The test requires a blood sample, which can be taken via a fingerstick or an arm vein.
When can I expect my results?
Antibody testing turnaround times can differ. Same-day results may be available at some point-of-care clinics. The turnaround time for lab analysis is typically between one and three days.
How accurate is this test?
Antibody testing for COVID-19 was the subject of another 2021 Cochrane review. As time went on, the exam generally became more precise. Examples of the test’s accuracy include:
- 30% accuracy 1 week after symptom onset
- 70% accuracy 2 weeks symptom onset
- > 90% accuracy Three weeks following the onset of symptoms
We are still trying to determine how long antibodies from a natural SARS-CoV-2 infection remain active. After recovering from COVID-19, several studies have revealed that antibodies can linger for up to 7 months.
Conclusion
Several diagnostic options are available for Walgreens Covid Testing. Antibody testing and virus detection are two examples. A viral test can determine the presence of COVID-19. Molecular testing and antigen tests are the two main categories of viral diagnostics. The molecular test provides more reliable results.
By taking an antibody test, you can find out if you’ve had contact with the new coronavirus. However, they are unable to identify active cases of COVID-19. The Families First Coronavirus Response Act presently covers the cost of all COVID-19 tests.
Be bold and consult your doctor if you have any concerns or questions regarding your COVID-19 test or its results.
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