The spread of the coronavirus infection has not only changed our usual lives but has also forced the scientific medical community to work hard to find a cure, develop a vaccine, and create diagnostic laboratory tests that can distinguish COVID-19 from the common cold and detect the virus in those who have no symptoms of the disease. There are over 400 different tests in total, but they can all be divided into three types: PCR test (molecular test), antigen test, and antibody test.
Which test method to choose
The PCR test and the antigen test are diagnostic. They allow you to identify the pathogen and verify whether a person is a carrier at the testing time. The most convenient is the FlowFlex rapid antigen test. For it, the PCR test, a sample is also taken from the nasopharynx and oropharynx, and the test result is known in just 15 minutes. The antigen tests are much cheaper in cost, but their sensitivity and specificity are somewhat lower than PCR. In addition, it is necessary to take into account that if the test has passed more than 7 days after infection, the amount of antigen in the body is small, and the result may be negative, even if the person is infected with COVID-19.
Follow-up on a positive result for COVID-19
Starting testing, you must be prepared to get a disappointing result for you – confirmation of coronavirus disease. In this case, you should ask how to practice proper self-isolation in order to avoid the spread of the disease and not endanger your loved ones. In addition, it is necessary to tell your doctor about this result and follow all his instructions for treatment.
Finally, it is important to note that in addition to the COVID-19 test itself, you should also evaluate your general health when you have symptoms so that your doctor can choose the most effective treatment and prevent possible serious complications.
Peculiarities of proper self-isolation
Try to plan your self-isolation time, so you don’t have to leave the house or have visitors. Explain this to friends and family, and discuss the possibility of working remotely. Isolate yourself in a well-ventilated room. Remember to wash your hands regularly with soap and water, clean, including wet cleaning of surfaces, cough hygiene, and use disposable tissues and handkerchiefs.
Always wear a medical mask during human contact and discard it after use or contamination. Try to minimize trips to the store. If possible, ask friends or relatives to deliver food and necessary purchases to your front door or use remote delivery services.
Preparation before testing for the antigen
It is best to take the test in the morning immediately after a night’s sleep. Nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal samples are taken on an empty stomach (at least 4-6 hours after a meal). Before the test, it is not recommended to brush your teeth, rinse your throat/mouth, smoke, use oropharyngeal irrigation medications, chew gum, candy, etc.