When you feel a little sick, have a fever, or cough, you may be wondering, “Oh, is this COVID -19 ?” Isn’t that normal? But rather than panicking at a time like this, the best and only way to know for sure whether you’ve actually been infected with the virus is to get tested . Today, we’ll talk about the COVID test, what types it is, who should get tested, and what to do once the report comes back.
Who should take a Covid test?
In general, it is very important for you to take a test in a situation like this:
- If you have COVID symptoms: If you have symptoms such as fever, cough, and difficulty breathing , it is wise to get tested immediately.
- If you have been in close contact with someone with COVID: If someone in your household, friend, or workplace has tested positive for COVID, you should also get tested. But remember, the most accurate results can only be obtained if the person is asymptomatic and has been in contact with the person for at least 5 days .
- If you are planning a trip abroad: Some countries require a COVID test report to enter, so check the rules of the country you are visiting in advance.
Some people may be infected with COVID but not show any symptoms, so if you have any doubts, it's best to get tested.
| Dry cough | Difficulty breathing or wheezing |
| Body aches and muscle pains | Fatigue |
| Loss of smell or taste | Sore throat |
| Cold or stuffy nose | Stomach upset, vomiting, or diarrhea |
| Fever and chills | Headache |
What types of Covid tests are there?
There are two main types of tests that detect the virus called SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19.
1. PCR test (Molecular tests / PCR tests)
2. Rapid Antigen tests
What is the PCR test?
This is the most accurate and reliable test for COVID-19, which is why it's called the "gold standard." It involves testing a sample of your nose or throat for the virus' genetic material, or RNA in a lab.
The sample is usually taken by inserting a cotton swab into your nostrils and swirling it around for a while. Sometimes it is inserted a little deeper into the nose. This is a little uncomfortable, but not painful. It can take 24 hours or more for the results to come back.
What is a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT)?
This is the test we often do at home, or what is known as a “self test.” It looks for protein fragments called (Antigen) on the surface of the virus. It’s like a home pregnancy test. You take a sample from your nose, put it in the liquid in the test kit, and see the results in a few minutes.
| Feature | PCR test | Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) |
|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | Very high. Even a very small amount of the virus can be detected in the body. | It's good. But sometimes it can be a 'false negative' even if the virus is present. |
| Speed | It takes 24 hours or more. | The result is available within 15-30 minutes. |
| Where can I get it? | Only in a hospital or medical laboratory (lab). | You can even do it at home. |
Antibody Test
This is different from the two tests discussed earlier. This is done with blood. It looks for antibodies in your body that have been produced against the Covid virus. This means that this test shows whether you have had the infection in the past , rather than whether you are currently infected.
What do you do when the test report arrives?
The way you should act will vary depending on the results of the test you took.
If the result is positive
This means that you have the COVID virus in your body. If this happens, you must do these things:
- Tell your doctor immediately. It is especially important to seek medical advice if you are elderly or have other medical conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease .
- Stay home except for medical care. This is very important to prevent the spread of the virus to others.
- Stay as far away from other people in the house as possible. It's best if you can stay in a separate room.
- Even at home, wear a mask if you are around other people.
- Do not share your used dishes, cups, or towels with others.
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing. Wash your hands with soap and water frequently.
- Inform those you have been close to recently about your results.
Once your symptoms have subsided and you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without taking fever-reducing medication, you can return to normal activities. However, it is still a good idea to take precautions, such as wearing a mask when in public, for up to 5 days.
If the result is negative
This means that the virus was not detected in your body at the time you took the test. If you don't have symptoms, you probably don't have COVID. However, if it's a rapid antigen test, it can sometimes be a "false negative" result.
If you have a negative report but continue to have symptoms, the best thing to do is to talk to your doctor for advice. He or she may ask you to take a PCR test.
What is an emergency?
Whether you are confirmed to have COVID or not, if you have any of the symptoms below, it could be an emergency. Go to a hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
- Severe difficulty breathing
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- Confusion or loss of consciousness
- Inability to stay awake due to drowsiness
- Blue/gray discoloration of the lips or face
Take-Home Message
- If you have COVID symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who has been infected, get tested.
- The PCR test is the most accurate. The Rapid Antigen Test (RAT), although faster, can sometimes give false negative results.
- If the test is positive, immediately stay home, isolate yourself, and notify your doctor.
- If symptoms persist despite a negative result, seek medical advice.
- If you have severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing and chest pain , it is an emergency. Go to a hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately.
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