The swab is then placed in a cartridge for antigen testing or sealed in a bag for PCR testing. The user places a sterile cotton swab into each nostril and turns it several times to obtain a sufficient sample. Nasal swab: While professional testing centers tend to swab deep inside the nasal cavity, most at-home tests only require a shallow nasal swab. There are two common methods: nasal swab or saliva. One important consideration when comparing at-home Covid tests is the way the test samples are collected. At-home PCR Covid tests are notably more expensive too.īestReviews Medical Expert Sample collection The PCR test is considered more accurate than the rapid antigen test, but the specimen must be sent to an outside laboratory for proper analysis, and the results can take several days to get. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test: The second form of at-home test examines a nasal swab or saliva for fragments of viral DNA. The reactant measures the presence of the Covid virus (viral load) in the specimen. Accuracy with a rapid antigen test can vary, however, so a second test at least 24 hours later is recommended. The swab from the patient’s nasal cavity is placed in a special cartridge containing a reactant fluid. Each method has advantages and disadvantages, but both should provide a fairly accurate assessment of the tester’s current status.Īntigen test: This is the more rapid form, which gives you results in 30 minutes or less. There are currently two methods for determining a Covid infection: detect the viral presence (antigen test) or search for Covid DNA (PCR test). Having immediate access to a rapid antigen test at home makes this process easier. Some people need to know their current status as quickly as possible in order to make safer decisions about travel, family gatherings, or public events. Many companies offer rapid-result testing for in-office employees but not necessarily for those working from home. Some people don’t have easy access to a medical professional, and ordering an at-home test provides an easier way to get fast results.Įmployees who work at home can take an at-home Covid test whenever they start to experience any of the common symptoms associated with the virus. There are a number of circumstances in which a self-administered test is preferable to one performed in a medical facility. BestReviews Medical Expert How to buy the best at-home Covid tests Who should use an at-home Covid test?
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