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Aug 2022

Understanding the differences between Rapid antigen test and RT-PCR test

Posted By Suborna Fermi Posted on Aug 17, 2022

We all have witnessed the devastated state of covid infection. This severe respiratory disease has affected not less than 20 million people in the whole wide world. As this disease is very transmittable which causes the dangerous threat to our health.

To minimize its hazard effect, all we can do is to detect the virus as early as possible. So that the treatment will also start at the very next moment. To detect the SARS-coV-2 virus or the antibodies which our body makes when it is affected by the virus, there are multiple tests available in the market.

Some of the tests which are recommended to the doctors are:

  • Molecular tests (Rt-PCR, NAAT)
  • Antibody test
  • Antigen test

All the mentioned tests procedure, accuracy and speed are different as they examine different parts of the SARS-coV-2 virus. Let’s discuss the differences between the RT-PCR test and Rapid antigen test.

RT-PCR test

The full form of the RT-PCR test is Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction test, which is the most preferred test in the case of diagnosing covid infection. This test gives the accurate test result, and it can also detect any remaining viruses even after the person has been cured.

This molecular test detects the presence of RNAs of the SARS-coV-2 virus in the sample. The results are quite accurate, but the result may take 2 to 3 days. The rt pcr test cost is relatively low, and you can find a rt pcr test near me to get it done.

Rapid antigen test

Rapid antigen tests are tests which can be done anywhere, including hospital, clinic, and home. This test helps in detecting the protein parts of the SARS.coV-2 virus. The price of this test is less expensive than the RT-PCR test.

The rapid antigen tests are much similar to that of pregnancy test kits. You have to transfer the nose or throat swab to the test strip to get the result. You can expect the result in 15 minutes. However, if you receive a negative test result, then you have to test yourself again in the upcoming two week.

Keep in mind at the time of the testing, you should stay in isolation to stop further infections. If you notice any symptoms of covid-19, find a covid test near me and test yourself. You can find a rt pcr test near me online as well.