What is the COVID-19 PCR test for?
The COVID-19 PCR test determines whether or not there is an active infection. Especially indicated in the early stages of infection, when symptoms have not yet developed.
This diagnostic test is designed to detect the pathogen itself by detecting the RNA of the virus in nasopharyngeal swabs.
Test technology
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a laboratory technique that allows small fragments of DNA to be amplified to identify microscopic germs that cause diseases, such as the coronavirus.
Indications
For anyone with symptoms of COVID-19 or who has been in contact with someone affected.
For anyone looking to make sure they are not currently infected, even if they are asymptomatic.
Indicated to be performed in the initial stages of COVID-19 infection, when symptoms have not yet developed.
What does a Positive result mean?
A positive result for COVID-19 indicates that a COVID-19 infection has been detected. The patient is considered infected and presumably may be contagious.
What does a Negative result mean?
A negative COVID-19 result indicates that a COVID-19 infection has not been detected. The patient is considered to be uninfected and presumably cannot be contagious.
