COVID-19 OR CORONAVIRUS TYPES OF TEST
Which test is best for COVID-19?
MOLECULAR TESTS (ALSO CALLED PCR TESTS, VIRAL RNA TESTS, NUCLEIC ACID TESTS)
- How is it done? Nasal swabs, throat swabs, and tests of saliva or other bodily fluids.
- Where can you get this test? At a hospital, in a medical office, in your car, or even at home. The FDA has authorized a home molecular test that requires no prescription.
- What does the test look for? Molecular tests look for genetic material that comes only from the virus.
- How long does it take to get results? It depends on lab capacity. Results may be ready within hours, but often take at least a day or two. Much longer turnaround times are reported in many places.
ANTIGEN TESTS
- How is it done? A nasal or throat swab.
- Where can you get these tests? At a hospital, a doctor’s office or at home (the FDA has authorized a home antigen test that requires no prescription).
- What does the test look for? This test identifies protein fragments (antigens) from the virus.
- How long does it take to get results? The technology involved is similar to a pregnancy test or a rapid strep test, with results available in minutes.
TESTS FOR PAST INFECTION
An antibody test can show if you have previously been infected with the COVID-19 virus.
ANTIBODY TESTS (ALSO CALLED SEROLOGIC TESTING)
- How is it done? A sample of blood is taken.
- Where can you get these tests? At a doctor’s office, blood testing lab, or hospital.
- What does the test look for? These blood tests identify antibodies that the body’s immune system has produced in response to the infection. While a serologic test cannot tell you if you have an infection now, it can accurately identify past infection.
- How long does it take to get results? Results are usually available in 15 minutes.
HOW MUCH DOES TESTING COST?
Health insurance covers the test and NO copay for a patient. Patients without insurance call at (617)390-5371 to receive more information about out-of -pocket cost.
REQUEST AN ANTIBODY RAPID COVID-19 TEST
For your health and safety, as a service to our community, ABS Dentistry is providing Rapid COVID-19 antibody test to all of our existing and prospective patients only By Appointment.