Most of these tests provide results in 30 minutes or less. These include several that can also test for other viruses, like those that cause the flu (influenza). Many rapid molecular tests have been authorized for use at point-of-care. This means that the test makes thousands of copies of the virus’s DNA found in a sample from your nose. These tests most often use techniques called RT-PCR (reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction) or isothermal amplification. They were the first type of COVID test to be authorized and widely used. Molecular tests detect the presence of viral genetic material in a sample. Molecular tests are the most accurate type of COVID tests, rapid or not. The FDA has also authorized a rapid COVID breath test, but it’s not widely available yet. These tests work differently in how they detect SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID. There are two different types of rapid COVID tests available: And you can get results with these tests from the comfort of your home. You can also buy these tests without an order or prescription from a provider. What’s more, many rapid tests are available over the counter (OTC). They don’t need an outside laboratory to process. You can do rapid tests at point-of-care, like a testing site or a provider’s office. In general, most rapid tests provide results in 15 to 30 minutes. The fastest test currently available - ID NOW by Abbott - can detect the virus in 13 minutes or less. Compared to standard tests, rapid tests are often simpler. The key difference between rapid tests and standard laboratory tests is how long they take to process results.Īs the name suggests, rapid tests can produce fast results. Here we’ll cover the basics of rapid COVID tests, how fast they are, and the accuracy of the results. Rapid COVID tests are available at healthcare offices and the shelves of your local pharmacy or supermarket. But with fewer roadblocks and improvements in rapid testing, now you can get faster results. Early on, it sometimes took days to weeks to get test results. Testing is available at 3920 Michigan Ave., Fort Myers, FL 33916 by calling 23 for an appointment.įor more information, please visit FDOH's website.Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, over 1 billion COVID tests have been performed in the U.S.Pricing may vary by provider,Ĭall to confirm pricing and availability before visiting a testing location. Testing for COVID-19 is offered for free at the Florida Department of Health offices and many other testing locations. Results are typically available within 72 hours of taking the test. Antibody testing (blood test) - W ill show if you have antibodies toward a coronavirus, but it can’t confirm an active infection.Results are typically available the same day you take the test. COVID-19 Rapid Antigen (nasal or throat swab) - Can also detect whether you’re actively infected, but negative results should be confirmed through PCR.Results are typically available between 48-72 hours after taking the test. PCR Test (nasal swab) - Considered the gold standard of COVID tests and can detect whether you’re actively infected.Communicate with your doctor about quarantining and when to get retested. Communicate with your doctor about quarantining and when to get retested.Įxperiencing COVID-19 Symptoms - Get a COVID-19 test immediately if you are currently experiencing symptoms of COVID-19. Where you can go to receive a test below.Įxposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 - Get a COVID-19 test 3-5 days following known exposure. Learn more about getting tested for COVID-19, the types of tests available, and Lee County from many providers, each with its own scheduling and registration process.
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