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Testing for COVID-19 will still be an important practice in years to come, even after vaccination. There are several types of tests that are performed under different circumstances, which can lead to a little bit of confusion. While accurate testing and clinical judgment are essential factors in this process, when patients are informed and aware of it, everything runs more smoothly.
At CareLife Medical, we offer several alternatives for COVID-19 testing. Let’s dive into some of the most common questions regarding COVID-19 testing so you can make the right decision for your health.
What Is an RT-PCR Nasal Swab Test?
Thanks to its RNA technology, the RT-PCR method is a reliable way to detect if the COVID virus is present at the moment of the test. The most common way to do so is by taking a sample from your nasal or oral passage, also known as a swab.
The sample must be processed by a formal laboratory using specialized testing equipment, and your results may be available hours or a couple of days after the test. In some cases, medical providers might recommend repeating the test if they suspect a “false negative”. Despite this possibility, a nasal swab was and still is considered one of the best alternatives for confirming if you contracted the COVID-19 virus.
What Is an Antibody or Serology Test for COVID-19?
Our systems have developed several ways to fight pathogens when they enter our bodies. One of those is creating neutralizing antibodies that fight the infection and counter its effects. In the case of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, we form IgM and IgC, which are identified during an antibody test for COVID-19.
IgM, or immunoglobulin M, rises in blood when exposed to a virus during the early stages of the disease. If your contraction has been somewhat recent, you will most likely turn out positive, which is why it is an early indicator of infection. Depending on your immune system and amount of viral exposure, this rise can last between a couple of days to a week, and it can show up both in asymptomatic individuals and those with clear signs.
On the other hand, Igc, or immunoglobulin G, tends to appear much later in the disease, and usually it can not be measured before three weeks (or longer) post-infection. It correlates with past exposure and a possible long or medium-term immunity.
Both of these antibodies can help experts assess if a person has been exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Methods for Antibody Testing
- Rapid IgM antibody test: With a small blood sample, taken from a fingerstick or a venipuncture, you can get a result determining whether or not you have presence of IgM antibodies in your system. Results usually take 10 or 15 minutes to appear. If positive, you should still get RT-PCR testing for proper confirmation and diagnosis of COVID-19.
- Rapid IgG antibody test: These are often done to detect past exposure to the virus, as well as checking for your immune response. It is performed very similarly to the IgM test, just in different stages of the infection. For further data, you might need a blood serology or RT-PCR diagnosis.
Keep in mind that rapid tests’ accuracy can vary depending on several factors, and will get better at identifying the antibodies the longer it has passed since exposure. They can also provide you with “false negatives” and “false positives”. This is why further testing with more reliable methods such as RT-PCR are important.
A blood serology test for IgM and IgG antibodies is also a great and reliable way to detect your body’s immune response to the virus. By collecting a blood sample, the laboratory will analyze it for antibodies. While it’s not a direct diagnosis method for COVID-19, it can help you know whether you have been exposed to the virus or not and insights on your immune response.
Are There Additional COVID-19 Testing Methods?
Some other options for checking for COVID-19 are:
- Rapid antigen swabs, which detects viral proteins. It can provide faster results than a PCR, but it is usually less accurate
- Saliva-based PCR tests, an alternative to nasal swabs
- Chest imaging, while not specific for COVID-19, it can identify lung abnormalities often associated with the virus
What Can I Expect From My Results?
If you suspect you might have contracted COVID-19, it’s essential to take rest and isolate to prevent further spread. However, scenarios can vary according to the test you’ve taken and their results:
- IgM positive from a rapid test: follow-up with a RT-PCR for confirmation and self-quarantine until then.
- RT-PCR positive with no antibody response: this happens when you’re very early in the infection stage. You might present symptoms or not, but you are contagious and must isolate.
- RT-PCR and IgM/IgG negative: there is no current infection, but if you have been directly exposed to the virus or are a high-risk individual, you might need to repeat your test.
- IgG positive only: you were exposed to the virus at some past point, but your current status will be uncertain until you get a RT-PCR.
There are several other scenarios that should be addressed by a professional, according to your medical history and current status.
COVID-19 Testing in Church Falls, Virginia
The best thing you can do if you suspect you’re infected with COVID-19 is to get tested—however, keep in mind that testing very early in the disease could result in false negatives.
If you tested positive, keep calm and carefully follow your provider and CDC guidelines for the best outcomes. Monitor your symptoms and don’t hesitate to seek prompt medical attention if they get worse.
For accurate COVID-19 tests, you can contact CareLife Medical in Church Falls, Virginia. Our compassionate team will make sure to address your concerns and give you the best response and guidance. Schedule your appointment for a COVID-19 test online or by calling our Virginia practice.
Your life deserves personalized care. Contact us and let us guide you.