- Charlotte D.
- Friday, May 20, 2022
If you have needed to take a COVID-19 test recently, you have probably noticed there are a lot of options. PCR, viral, antigen, antibody – what does it all mean?
Here, we will explain the main differences between your testing options - however, always be sure to check with your doctor regarding which test is right for you!
Diagnostic/viral tests
Diagnostic/viral tests detect the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. Test results are usually collected via nasal swab or saliva collection. There are several types of diagnostic/viral tests, including the following three types:
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Laboratory tests, usually NAATs
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NAATs (Nucleic acid amplification tests) work by making many copies of the virus’s genetic material. This allows for the COVID-19 virus – even very small traces of it – to be detected early. False-negative or false-positive tests are very rare.
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RT-PCR tests (Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, also known as PCR tests), a type of NAAT, quickly and accurately detect RNA (ribonucleic acid, or genetic material) that a pathogen (disease-causing organism) may carry. PCR tests may take several hours or days to produce results, but they are able to detect viruses at the earliest sign of infection.
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Laboratory tests are usually accepted for most types of travel, but check with your destination to ensure a PCR or other type of NAAT will work. They can sometimes take as long as two days (or more) to render results.
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Rapid tests
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These usually include antigen tests.
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Antigen tests show results faster than PCR tests (15-30 minutes instead of hours or days).
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They can be susceptible to less accurate results and sometimes are not accepted for certain types of travel.
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Self-Tests
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These can include OTC (over-the-counter) tests and at-home tests.
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These are administered at home with quick results (15-30 minutes instead of hours or days).
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They can also be less accurate and may not be accepted for certain types of travel.
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Here is a list of authorized self-tests and where you can get them for free.
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Antibody/serology tests
Antibody/serology tests detect antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 in your blood. They might show if you have previously been infected with COVID-19, but they should not be used if you are trying to diagnose a current COVID-19 infection.
There are several instances where antibody/serology tests are not currently recommended:
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Checking for current possible COVID-19 infection
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Checking for immunity to COVID-19 following vaccination
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Checking for COVID-19 booster necessity
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Checking for COVID-19 following exposure to someone that has it
With the Coronavirus (COVID-19) currently impacting the U.S., we've compiled a list of resources and information to help you and your family stay informed. For additional COVID-19 resources and information, click here.
For general COVID information via phone, call:
DHEC Care Line (General COVID Information) 855-472-3432
CDC Info (General COVID Information) 800-232-4636
Richland County Health Department 855-472-3432