After Covid-19, diagnosis tests are roaming everywhere. The most common tests include PCR and Rapid tests. Some people need to know the difference between these two tests to understand which one is more trustworthy and reliable. This article is totally about this topic.
PCR Test
The full name of the PCR test is the Polymerase chain reaction test. This test involves the multiplication of a human DNA fragment that makes millions of copies of that fragment to locate the virus in the human body.
Rapid Test
Another name used for the Rapid test is the Antigen test. It is the fastest test, and many travelers prefer it due to its quick results. You can run this test by yourself at home.
Difference Between PCR and Rapid Test
You are here to know the reliability of PCR and Rapid tests. Let’s first make some differences between them and then judge them accordingly.
1. Need for Lab Testing
Anybody can run a Rapid test at home by watching a guiding video on the Official Rapid Tests website. This fact of Rapid tests claims that they do not require lab testing. However, PCR tests require lab testing because you cannot multiply a DNA fragment without proper machinery.
2. Targeted Element
In the Rapid test, the targeted substance is an antigen. An antigen is a substance that triggers the immune system to produce more antibodies. These antibodies fight against the foreign antigen and try to protect the body. In PCR tests, medical experts search for virus genetic material in the human sample. It has no concern with virus antigens.
3. Results Timing
The rapid test has its meaning in its name. It takes only 15 – 30 minutes to show results, while a PCR test takes 24 hours to express results. PCR requires more time than Rapid tests due to the DNA multiplication process.
4. Reliability
Scientists have conducted much research to detect the reliability of PCR and Rapid tests. According to their findings, the PCR test is more reliable than the Rapid antigen test. Rapid tests can only diagnose viruses during the infectious phase, while PCR tests can detect the virus during pre-infectious, infectious, and post-infectious stages.
What Should I Do During Isolation?
Suppose you have isolated yourself because of Covid symptoms and want to get the test. You should stay home and order a test kit online. Many online test provider companies are working in the UK. You only need to find the most reliable one and use their services.
The Best Online Site for Covid Testing
Official Rapid Tests is the most trustworthy test-providing organization. They do not require you to visit their center personally. However, you can order any testing kit from your comfort zone. In the case of PCR tests, they will also provide you with a sample-collecting service for lab testing from your doorstep. Official Rapid Tests is the best preference because it is among the UK Government Listed Testing Provider companies. So, visit their website and book your test with them.