Is There A Diagnostic Test For COVID-19?
COVID-19Common questionIs there a diagnostic test for COVID-19?Yes, the FDA has issued Emergency Use Authorizations (EUAs) for different types of COVID-19 tests. Some tests are used to diagnose the virus that causes COVID-19 infection whereas other tests are used to detect a recent or prior COVID-19 infection.5 days ago
Are there different types of COVID-19 diagnostic tests?
There are 2 different types of COVID-19 diagnostic tests -- molecular tests and antigen tests. Molecular tests detect the virus that causes COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2. Antigen tests detect specific proteins made by the virus.
COVID-19 Frequently Asked Questions | FDA
What are the differences between the nasal swab and saliva tests for COVID-19?
See full answerSamples for COVID-19 tests may be collected through a long swab that is inserted into the nose and sometimes down to the throat, or from a saliva sample.The saliva test is easier to perform — spitting into a cup versus submitting to a swab — and more comfortable. Because a person can independently spit into a cup, the saliva test does not require interaction with a healthcare worker. This cuts down on the need for masks, gowns, gloves, and other protective equipment, which has bee
If you've been exposed to the coronavirus
What is the CDC's first diagnostic test for COVID-19?
The first test for COVID-19 diagnosis that CDC distributed, released in February 2020, is the CDC 2019-Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) Real-Time RT-PCR Diagnostic Panel, a test that accurately detects SARS-CoV-2 in respiratory specimens.
CDC Diagnostic Tests for COVID-19
What is the COVID-19 PCR diagnostic test?
PCR test: Stands for polymerase chain reaction test. This is a diagnostic test that determines if you are infected by analyzing a sample to see if it contains genetic material from the virus.
Coronavirus (COVID-19): Glossary of Common Terms