PCR vs. Rapid COVID-19 Tests: What’s the Difference?
Coronavirus testing is one of the most effective weapons in the battle against COVID-19 because it helps identify individuals who have contracted the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes the disease. From a public health perspective, identifying and quarantining individuals who are infected is among the best ways to stop the spread of COVID-19, a highly contagious disease that has caused many hospitalizations and deaths across the globe. Testing has also been an invaluable tool for employers who want to ensure safe workplaces for their employees, and for individuals who want to make responsible decisions about travel and socializing with others.
But which type of COVID-19 test is the best? As with many questions in life, the answer is “it depends.” Generally, there are two types of COVID-19 tests designed to identify active coronavirus infections: the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test and the rapid antigen test. Both of these tests involve analysis of a nasal swab sample. However, there are differences between the PCR and rapid COVID-19 tests that you should consider if you’re planning to get a coronavirus test.
At Cape Regional Urgent Care, we offer both rapid and PCR coronavirus testing at all three of our urgent care clinics in Cape May County, New Jersey. Patients can book appointments for COVID-19 testing any day of the week using our convenient online check-in service. Here’s a brief description of each test that can help you choose the best option if you’re planning to get tested:
PCR Coronavirus Testing
Considered the gold standard in COVID-19 testing, this test detects the presence of genetic material that’s specific to SARS-CoV-2, even if the patient is not experiencing symptoms. The accuracy rate is high, and negative results for this type of test are often required for travel. The test typically takes 3 to 5 days to process once it’s received by an outside lab, and results may not be available for several days during high-demand periods.
Rapid COVID-19 Testing
This antigen test detects protein fragments associated with an active SARS-CoV-2 infection. The primary advantage of this test is the rapid turnaround time, with results typically available in about 15 minutes. However, the rapid antigen test is minimally less accurate than the PCR test.
Cape Regional Urgent Care also offers the antibody serum test, which involves analyzing a small blood sample. This test is designed to identify individuals who have had COVID-19 and recovered, which may indicate some level of immunity to the disease.
Do you have questions? Contact Cape Regional Urgent Care today if you’d like more information about testing at our urgent care clinics in Cape May County.
