Which Test?

There are three categories of testing, in simple terms:

1. Molecular analysis, detects the presence of genetic material that belongs to COVID virus and this detection method is called a NAAT, N-A-A-T or PCR analysis. Sample usually is taken using a swab from pharyngeal region taken from the noise or mouth, that scientist will use it to test for the presence of genetic material of Covid-19 virus.

2. Lateral flow analysis is a test used to identify one of the outer proteins of the viral shell or envelope. This test  is also called antigen testing or due to the speed of the analysis is sometimes called Rapid Test.

3. Screening for antibodies, a blood analysis has been developed that detects antibodies specific to the outer portion of the virus itself. Indicating if an individual has mounted an immune response or developed immunity towards that specific virus or to COVID.

Aquracy of my covid test

PCR testing, which is the NAAT testing or that tests the nucleic acid of the virus itself, is the most sensitive one and to complete the testing process, it needs specialised laboratory conditions and personnel. This test has a longer turnaround time while antigen testing (Rapid Test) has been developed point of care medical device or in the field with no need of any sophisticated laboratory settings, but compromises on accuracy compared to PCR testing, but remain as a very important value as one of the tools to address the COVID pandemic.

We must emphasise that these test are considered very accurate but must be performed by appropriately trained personnel as it can dramatically change the result of your analysis.