MOLECULAR TEST
Well, there Are several ways to test for coronavirus positive . mostly they Are either molecular or serological tests.
Molecular tests can be done to look For signs of an active infection.
This is done by usually Taking a sample from back of your throat with cotton swab. The next is by sending it to lab for testing.
The sample will undergo a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. This type of test detects signs of the virus’s genetic material.
A PCR test can confirm a diagnosis of COVID-19 if it identifies two specific SARS-CoV-2 genes. If it identifies only one of these genes, it will produce an inconclusive result.
Molecular test can only identify if a person is diagnosed with covid-19, they cannot tell whether someone has had this in past or recovered after that and again infected.
SEROLOGICAL TEST
Serological Tests are particularly useful for detecting cases of infection without Mild and no syptoms.
This test identifies the antibodies which our body produces to fight this virus. Basically a person who has recoverd from coronavirus generally develop/Present with antibodies.
The antibody is present in blood and tissue through the body. A serological test requires a blood sample.
Where can you get tests?
There are different options for testing.
Public test
It is important to note that these tests are currently limited to people in danger of serious illness. Those at risk include:
- people with severe symptoms
- people with underlying health conditions
- pregnant women
- older adults
Home tests
On April 21, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the use of the first COVID-19 home testing kit. Using the cotton swab provided, people will be able to collect a nasal sample and mail it to a designated laboratory for testing.
But, the emergency use authorization Specifies that these test kits are authorized for use by healthcare professionals only having suspect of covid19.
Are these results accurate?
COVID-19 tests are new and there is a challenge in the accuracy.
PCR tests may produce false result for Sars-Cov-2.
Generally false negative results are due to mishandling by human resource by following wrong procedure, giving test too early or late this can lead a false result.
When should you get tested?
Anyone with the following symptoms should contact a healthcare provider:
- a cough
- shortness of breath
- a fever
Please keep in mind these tests are in short supply and are only available for those people who are at a risk of severe illness. Only a doctor can testify wheather the symptoms needs to to be taken further for test.
REMEMBER
Most people who develop COVID-19 have a relatively mild form of the disease, which does not require specialist treatment in a hospital.
Mild symptoms may include a fever, a cough, a sore throat, tiredness, and shortness of breath, which may last 1–2 weeks.
Other people who have the infection may experience no symptoms.
For some people, COVID-19 is a severe illness. The risk is higher for people who are older or who have chronic health conditions, such as diabetes.