The test is generally performed by taking a sample (nasal fluid or saliva) from the upper respiratory tract, like the nose or mouth, using a cotton swab. Amplification of the tiny genetic material is now done by the polymerase chain reaction method to identify the pathogen (SAR-CoV-2). The amplification property is able to detect the tiniest amount of genetic material existing in a sample. This is known as a PCR(Polymerase Chain Reaction) test for COVID-19.

Your healthcare professional takes the fluid sample from the nostrils and nasopharynx by using a long swab with a soft end. The collected fluid sample gets under examination to detect if a person has an infection.

The swab test and RT-PCR test are no different. A swab is used to collect the nasopharynx and oropharynx for diagnosing COVID.

The RT-PCR test has higher sensitivity than the rapid test and is preferred for detecting even a small amount of pathogens and confirming the virus.

The COVID-19 RT-PCR test results can take approximately 24 hours after the sample collection. In situations, where there are a lot of cases and tests getting done in a single day, the reports may even take a couple of days to come.

The RT-PCR tests are very sensitive for even small amounts of the viral genetic material present in the sample. Thus, the test continues to detect fragments of SARS-CoV-2 infection even after you have recovered from the infection and are no longer contagious, and therefore, you might be detected positive for quite some time after the infection.

Other than the COVID-19 RT-PCR test, an IgG antibody test or antigen test can also be conducted in response to COVID-19 infection. A molecular RT-PCR test detects the genetic material of the virus in the sample whereas an antigen test detects the specific proteins that are present on the surface of the virus in the blood sample.

A general RT-PCR test is a diagnostic test that evaluates the presence of an active virus in the sample, whereas an antibody test evaluates the presence of antibodies generated by your immune system in response to the SARS-CoV-2 viral infection. The RT-PCR tells you if you have a virus infection at that point in time or not, whereas an antibody test tells you about the previous infection of SARS-CoV-2 as well.

The new strain of COVID-19 causing agent, SARS-CoV-2 is B.1.1.529. This strain is named ‘Omicron’ by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Yes, this strain can also be detected by RT-PCR in a similar manner as the previous strains.

The test is a gold standard for detecting SARS-CoV-2. It is highly sensitiveandhas100% accuracy.

There are two tests to detect coronavirus infection: PCR tests and antigen tests. PCR tests: After taking the patient’s sample from the nose or mouth, amplification of the genetic material is done by using the PCR (polymerase chain reaction) technique to detect the coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) in the given sample. The PCRtestsarehighly accurate (100%) and sensitive. But the PCR tests need highly skilled people, sophisticated lab facilities, and special equipment. Apart from these things, the test results also take time (usually 12 hours to 5 days). Antigen tests: They are another major test that is performed to detect the highly contagiousSAR-CoV-2 virus. Antigen tests are much faster compared to PCR tests. Here, the collected sample is treated with a chemical to separate specific cells. When this liquid is applied to a strip, a coloured line emerges on the strip, which confirms the presence of coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). These tests are easy and quick to perform, giving results within 15 minutes, and they are less expensive too. But antigen tests show less accuracy and are more suitable for symptomatic infections.

The omicron subvariant, BF.7 has made news for its shorter incubation period and higher capacity to infect even the vaccinated people. According to experts, the severity of this new variant will not be as serious as it is currently prevailing in other countries. However, all should take necessary precautions, like wearing a mask, maintaining social distancing, following hygiene measures and more to stay safe and healthy. Also, do not take any of your symptoms lightly and get tested at the earliest.

At Redcliffe Labs, we prioritize timely delivery of your health reports. Typically, you can expect to receive your reports within 30 hours after sample collection. We strive to provide your results as promptly as possible, ensuring you stay informed about your health status.

Absolutely! Booking a Covid RT PCR Test in Delhi with Redcliffe Labs is very easy. We offer home sample collection by trained phlebotomists, allowing you to get tested from the comfort of your home. Our services are designed to be convenient and reliable, ensuring quality healthcare is always accessible to you.

Yes, Redcliffe Labs provides free home sample collection for Covid RT PCR Test in Delhi. A certified and trained phlebotomist will visit your home as per the suitable time that, ensuring a safe, hygienic, and comfortable experience. Your sample is transferred from home to lab in the temperature controlled bag to ensure the integrity. Your report is delivered within the promised timeframe, letting you monitor your health from the comfort of home.