Coronavirus-related RNA can be detected in a laboratory using a nasal/throat swab sample and the PCR test. The PCR test is reliable and precise when it comes to tracking down viruses. If the lab test shows that you have been exposed to COVID-19, the results will be positive. A negative test result means you were free of COVID-19 infection at the time of the test. Anyone who has come into close contact with a person who has COVID-19 infection should be checked right away for the condition.
What Exactly Is A PCR Test?
This test identifies individuals who are currently ill with COVID-19. This is a fundamental topic we’ve been debating recently. It is a technique for assessing if a sample contains viral RNA or not. It looks for genetic data from a living entity, such as a virus, to use as a data source. If the individual contracted a virus during the test, it would be discovered.
A Covid-19 Test Should Be Done In The Following Conditions:
If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms, your healthcare professional may consider testing for COVID-19.
- Sign of fever or chills
- A persistent cough
- Nasal congestion, particularly with the Delta variant
- Discolouration of fingers and toes
- Muscle spasms and body aches
- Inflammation of the pharynx
- Tiredness
- Loss of taste or smell
- Vomiting or nausea
- Loose bowels
- Headache
- Rash
COVID-19 patients, on the other hand, may encounter any sign or symptom, or none of the ones indicated above. Seek guidance from your healthcare practitioner if you show signs and symptoms that are consistent with the COVID-19 infection, even if you are completely vaccinated.
What Do The Covid-19 PCR Test Results Mean?
A positive PCR test result indicates that you were or already are infected with SARS-CoV-2. It could be due to an asymptomatic infection, but if you have signs and symptoms, you may have COVID-19 disease. The majority of people who have minor ailments can be treated at home without specialized medical attention. If your symptoms worsen or if you have any questions or concerns, contact the nearest healthcare professional.
A negative PCR test result means you were not infected with SARS-CoV-2 at the time your samples were taken. It is feasible, though, to have COVID-19 and the virus to not be detected by the test. If you were recently infected but did not have signs and symptoms, or if you had COVID-19 for more than a week before testing, this could happen. A negative test doesn’t guarantee that you’ll be virus-free for long. You could be exposed to COVID-19 after your test, catch the virus, and transfer it to others.
If the test results are positive, consult a healthcare professional and isolate yourself from others. If your test results are negative, you should continue to follow safety precautions to avoid contracting COVID-19. Continue reading here to learn more on how to prevent infection if your COVID-19 test is positive.
How Long Does It Take To Receive The Results Of A Coronavirus PCR Test?
You should receive test results within 24 hours after sample collection, but it could take as long as a few days, depending on how quickly the lab personnel delivers the specimen to the testing facility.
If you need a covid test in Glasgow, visit scot.randox.com to book your test appointment.