The rapid antigen test for COVID-19 makes it possible to know whether the person is infected or has already had contact with the corona virus, as they are capable of detecting small particles of the virus in the nasal secretion or saliva, or the presence of antibodies in the blood. The quick tests can be done in pharmacies or drugstores and the results are obtained in 15 minutes, as they do not need to be sent to the laboratory in order to be analyzed using special equipment.
However, these tests are not considered by the WHO as a diagnostic test for COVID-19, serving only to identify whether the person has already had contact with the corona virus. For the diagnosis of COVID-19, the RTPCR remains the most recommended. Moreover these days it’s essential for the people who are inclined to travel aboard or domestically. As per government norms it is now essential to get a negative certificate.
Rapid antibody test
What it indicates: Whether the person has antibodies to the disease, which may indicate that they have had contact with the corona virus at some point.
How it is done: It is done by collecting a drop of blood on the finger. This blood is then placed in a small plastic device along with a solvent.
How to read the result: After 15-30 minutes, if the absorbent strip has a streak for G or M antibodies, it means that the person has antibodies against COVID-19. If only a line appears in the control field C, it means that the result is negative.
Rapid antigen test
What it indicates: whether there is active COVID-19 infection. However, the result must always be confirmed by an RTPCR test.
How it is done: A sample of saliva or nasal secretion is collected using a swab, which is similar to a cotton swab. The sample is then diluted in a special liquid and placed in a small plastic device, similar to a pharmacy pregnancy test.
How to read the result: After 15-30 minutes, if the absorbent tape has a streak in the “T” test field, even if it is slight, it means that the result is positive and the person has a high probability of having an active infection. If only a line appears in the control field “C”, it means that the result is negative. If there is no line in the “C” field, the test is considered invalid.
This type of Day 2 Antigen Test detects the presence of corona virus proteins, which are the antigens. Antigens are only present when the corona virus is actively multiplying. It is important to note that the result of this test is not altered by vaccination either.