The covid-19 outbreak has shaken the economies of developed as well as developing countries and the healthcare system. The consequences were so outraging that it took plenty of time to return to normal lives. During this time, uncountable people died, while some were cured during the pandemic. Though the situation is in control now, it’s better to get Covid-19 testing done and stay safe. So, let’s discuss some methods of testing Covid-19 in detail:
Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT)
This is the most common type of test which detects RNA from the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes Covid- 19. The most widely used NAAT is called Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain reaction or RT PCR, which takes a sample from the respiratory tract, such as the nasal or throat. It amplifies the virus RNA to detectable levels. RTPCR can detect even tiny amounts of virus RNA, and it is definite for SARS-CoV-2, which means that it is only positive in people affected by the virus. However, RT PCR can sometimes produce false negatives, especially if the sample is not collected correctly or the virus is at its initial stage.
Antigen Test
This is another type of test that detects proteins from the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Antigen tests are generally less expensive and faster than NAATs but are also less sensitive. These tests use a sample from the respiratory tract mixed with a solution containing antibodies specific to the SARS-CoV-2 virus. If the virus is present in the sample, it will bind to the antibodies forming an antigen-antibody complex. The test then detects this complex, indicating that the tested person is infected with the virus.
Antibody Tests
Antibody tests are a type of covid-19 test that detects antibodies in your blood, indicating that you have been infected with the virus at some point in the past. The test looks for the IGM and IGG antibodies that your immune system produces when it fights infection. Immunoglobulin M (IGM) is produced early in the infection, whereas immunoglobulin G (LGG) is produced later and can show that you have had the virus for some time.
Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Test
LAMP or Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Test operates like RT PCR but at a constant temperature. This test increases RNA from the SARS-CoV-2 virus in a sample taken from the respiratory system. One of the primary benefits of LAMP is its speed. It can produce results within an hour or so. Moreover, it can be performed in various areas, including point-of-care locations like walk-in covid testing clinics or hospitals in Jacksonville, FL. Further, LAMP is sometimes used when rapid testing is required in airports or border crossings. Lastly, it is a faster and cheaper alternative to mass testing.
Final Words
These covid-19 methods were used worldwide for testing purposes during the pandemic. Depending upon your requirements, you can choose any one of them. If you’re not sure what kind of Covid test will work best for you, then visit our clinic which provides Covid-19 testing service for all.