Even as the US government rolls out millions of COVID-19 vaccines each month, the importance of testing for the virus remains. By discovering an infection early on, one can rest and isolate to risk its spread.
Many are opting for rapid tests that can give results within minutes, but are they reliable? The experts at XpressTest discuss everything one might need to know about having a rapid COVID-19 test in Midland, TX.
How Does Rapid Testing Work?
XpressTest lab technicians take a nasal specimen to measure a person’s viral antigens or substances that activate the body’s immune system. They may also look for antibodies in their blood, which are protein components that fight infection. Many prefer these tests because they are minimally invasive and take less than fifteen minutes to see the results.
XpressTest also offers a more comprehensive form of testing called the RT-PCR test, which detects specific molecules of viral genetic material. This form of testing is the gold standard for identifying a COVID-19 infection, but clients have to wait between twenty-four to forty-eight hours for the results.
How Accurate is Rapid Testing?
Rapid antigen tests are very reliable when done under the early stages of infection, where the viral load is very high in a patient’s nasal passages and throat. A rapid antibody test, on the other hand, is more accurate if someone contracted the virus several weeks before, which gives their body time to produce antibodies
A positive test result for both these tests usually indicates that someone has COVID-19, especially if they’re experiencing symptoms. RT-PCR testing can further confirm the diagnosis.
When COVID-positive, XpressTest recommends following the CDC’s guidelines for isolation, which usually ranges between ten to fourteen days. Those experiencing severe symptoms should visit their healthcare facilities or the nearest emergency room as soon as those symptoms arise.
Get Rapid Covid-19 Testing from Trusted Specialists Today
With convenience in mind, the XpressTest team will arrive at the client’s preferred testing site – whether it’s their home, office, or even their car. For all of their services, the XpressTest team makes sure they wear CDC-recommended apparel, including isolation gowns, N95 masks, face shields, and medical gloves to maintain the highest safety standards.
Schedule a rapid COVID-19 test in Midland, TX, today by phone (888) 904-8378 or email [email protected]!