Are there different types of COVID-19 diagnostic tests?
Are there different types of COVID-19 diagnostic tests?
COVID-19Common questionAre there different types of COVID-19 diagnostic tests?There are 2 different types of COVID-19 diagnostic tests -- molecular tests and antigen tests. Molecular tests detect the virus that causes COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2. Antigen tests detect specific proteins made by the virus.Dec 15, 2021
What is the COVID-19 PCR diagnostic test?
COVID-19Common questionWhat is the COVID-19 PCR diagnostic test?PCR test: Stands for polymerase chain reaction test. This is a diagnostic test that determines if you are infected by analyzing a sample to see if it contains genetic material from the virus.Aug 9, 2021
What is the CDC's first diagnostic test for COVID-19?
COVID-19Common questionWhat is the CDC's first diagnostic test for COVID-19?The first test for COVID-19 diagnosis that CDC distributed, released in February 2020, is the CDC 2019-Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) Real-Time RT-PCR Diagnostic Panel, a test that accurately detects SARS-CoV-2 in respiratory specimens.
What are the differences between the nasal swab and saliva tests for COVID-19?
COVID-19Common questionSee full answerWhat are the differences between the nasal swab and saliva tests for COVID-19?Samples for COVID-19 tests may be collected through a long swab that is inserted into the nose and sometimes down to the throat, or from a saliva sample.The saliva test is easier to perform — spitting into a cup versus submitting to a swab — and more comfortable. Because a person can independently spit into a cup, the saliva test does not require interaction with a healthcare worker. This cuts down on the need for masks, gowns, gloves, and other protective equipment, which has been in short supply.Either saliva or swab samples may be used for PCR tests, which detect genetic material from the coronavirus. Swab samples can also be used for antigen tests, which detect specific proteins on the surface of the coronavirus.
What is a NAAT COVID-19 test?
COVID-19Common questionWhat is a NAAT COVID-19 test?A Nucleic Acid Amplification Test, or NAAT, is a type of viral diagnostic test for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. NAATs detect genetic material (nucleic acids).
What is a PCR test in the context of COVID-19 testing?
COVID-19Common questionWhat is a PCR test in the context of COVID-19 testing?A PCR test stands for polymerase chain reaction test. This is a diagnostic test that determines if you are infected by analyzing a sample to see if it contains genetic material from the virus.Aug 9, 2021
Can COVID-19 be spread through sex?
COVID-19Common questionCan COVID-19 be spread through sex?The virus spreads by respiratory droplets released when someone with the virus coughs, sneezes or talks. These droplets can be inhaled or land in the mouth or nose of a person nearby. Coming into contact with a person's spit through kissing or other sexual activities could expose you to the virus.