All You Need to Know About COVID-19 Test Results
Testing has played a significant role in protecting communities from rapid transmission.
Different types of COVID tests give different results. Our main focus today is on RT-PCR and antigen tests. These two types are the most commonly used COVID testing strategies. However, their reports may be a bit hard to understand.
Types of Tests Used to Detect the SARS-CoV-2
Currently, two types of COVID-19 tests that have proven to be highly effective in detecting COVID-19 include:
RT-PCR
RT-PCR, or the Gold Standard for COVID testing, is the most accurate test available today. There are two sub-types of RT-PCR: same day and next day test. However, the traditional PCR may take up to 72 hours, or even longer. The duration of your test result depends on the complexity and number of samples being analyzed.
Antigen tests
Antigen tests are faster but less accurate than RT-PCR. The time efficiency of an antigen test may affect the test result. A person carrying COVID-19 might not test positive in the early transmission days, thereby increasing the risk of virus transmission.
Breaking Down the Results
Here’s a complete list of possible COVID-19 test results and what they mean:
SARS-CoV-2 RNA Detected
If your RT_PCR reports states SARS-CoV-2 RNA detected, it means you’re positive. This shows that your sample contains viral RNA that caused the COVID-19 infection.
In this case, isolate yourself as soon as possible. Monitor your symptoms and stay in touch with your doctor via telemedicine platform. You may end your isolation if your symptoms alleviate and the last time you experienced fever or cough was at least 10 days ago.
SARS-CoV-2 RNA Not Detected
If you report says SARS-CoV-2 RNA not detected, it means you’re negative. Your sample did not contain any particles of the viral RNA. You are, however, still recommended to wear masks, practice social distancing, and maintain personal hygiene.
COVID-19 Antibody Test Result
An antibody test is used to detect whether a person has had COVID-19 in the past. It doesn’t tell whether you have an infection right now. However, an antibody test can be very helpful in determining the presence of antibodies.
Typically, COVID-19 antibodies develop in the human body after fourteen days of contracting the virus. A positive result indicates that you’ve had an infection before and you have antibodies in your blood. Whereas, a negative result suggests that you’ve not contracted COVID-19 in the past; hence there are no antibodies in your blood.
Efficient COVID-19 Testing in Miami
COVID-19 testing services like Good Hearts Testing now offer easy and reliable COVID tests across Miami.
We offer same-day RT-PCR COVID-19 test, Next-day RT-PCR, quick COVID-19 screening, and home testing services. Whether you want to avail corporate COVID-19 testing service for your employees or family, contact Good Hearts Testing today. We also provide drive-thru antibody testing and home antibody testing at affordable rates.
Our Same Day PCR Test is available 7-days a week and starts at prices as low as $125 only. We offer special rates for group testing services involving 20 people or more.
For more details, contact GHT at (786) 747-7904.