Learn about the term coronavirus in English (COVID-19), the types of rapid tests available in health centers and for home use, and how they function accurately.
Types of Rapid Tests for the New COVID Virus
Several rapid diagnostic options are available as alternatives to the traditional Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test, which is more complex, costly, and takes longer to produce results. These alternatives aim to speed up result delivery in emergency rooms and hospitals.
Diagnostic Devices in Health Facilities
These devices rely on analyzing saliva, mucus, or nasal and throat swabs. Notable examples include:
- Devices that provide positive results within 5 minutes and negative results within 10 to 15 minutes.
- Technologies that show results within 30 to 45 minutes by searching for the viral DNA.
- Tests that detect antibodies in the blood, taking approximately 20 minutes.
Home Testing Options
There are rapid home tests designed to detect antibodies (IgM and IgG) in the blood, featuring:
- Results appearing within 15 minutes.
- The ability to send results to doctors via telemedicine applications.
- Some of these devices reach a sensitivity rate of 87.3% and a specificity of 100%.
- Usefulness in identifying asymptomatic infected individuals or those previously infected.
How a Rapid Coronavirus Test Works
The mechanism of these tests varies based on the biological material used:
- Via Saliva: This type reduces the spread of contaminated droplets in the air during sample collection, protecting healthcare providers and allowing for more daily tests due to the speed of self-collection.
- Via Blood: These tests search for antibodies, which may take 5 to 14 days to appear in the body after infection.
- Via Swabs: Parts of the viral DNA are sought in nasopharyngeal or nasal swabs.
Infection Prevention Methods
When coronavirus in English is discussed as a global pandemic, strict preventive measures must be followed, including:
- Receiving approved vaccines.
- Washing hands with soap and water for 20 seconds, especially before eating and after touching surfaces.
- Avoiding touching the face and staying away from crowded gatherings.
- Using tissues when coughing or sneezing.
- Maintaining a safe distance when speaking with others.
FAQ
What is coronavirus in English?
The term for this virus in English is “Corona” or “COVID-19.”
Is a rapid test as accurate as PCR?
Results and speed differ; while a rapid test provides immediate results in minutes, PCR requires more time and complex laboratory processing. Research is ongoing to develop faster and cheaper ways to extract genetic materials.
When do antibodies appear in the blood?
Antibodies usually take between 5 to 14 days to appear after infection with the virus.
When to Visit a Doctor?
You should seek testing immediately upon the appearance of symptoms to prevent the condition from worsening or transmitting the infection to others. Immediate isolation is also recommended upon confirmed infection, especially for individuals with weakened immunity or chronic diseases.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
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Illustration: AI-generated
approved by: Medica Health team