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:
Laboratory tests, usually NAATs
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.
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.
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.
Rapid tests
These usually include antigen tests.
Antigen tests show results faster than PCR tests (15-30 minutes instead of hours or days).
They can be susceptible to less accurate results and sometimes are not accepted for certain types of travel.
Self-Tests
These can include OTC (over-the-counter) tests and at-home tests.
These are administered at home with quick results (15-30 minutes instead of hours or days).
They can also be less accurate and may not be accepted for certain types of travel.
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:
Checking for current possible COVID-19 infection
Checking for immunity to COVID-19 following vaccination
Checking for COVID-19 booster necessity
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