What Kind Of Sample Is Used To Test For COVID-19?
COVID-19Common questionSee full answerWhat kind of sample is used to test for COVID-19?Swab samples use a swab (similar to a long Q-Tip) to collect a sample from the nose or throat. The types of samples include:•Anterior Nares (Nasal) – takes a sample from just inside the nostrils•Mid-turbinate – takes a sample from further up inside the nose•Nasopharyngeal – takes a sample from deep inside the nose, reaching the back of the throat•Oropharyngeal – takes a sample from the middle part of the throa
How are people tested for COVID-19?
Most tests to diagnose COVID-19 require a swab of your nose, or the part of the throat behind the nose, by a health care provider. A few tests use saliva (spit) or other types of collection methods. For most tests, the swab or sample must be sent to a lab for analysis.
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 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
What samples could be used for a COVID-19 PCR test?
The PCR test looks for the presence of the COVID-19 virus by detecting its genetic material (RNA) through a technique called reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Samples that can be collected for this test include:• Nasal swab• Throat swab• Saliva sample
What Is the Difference Between a PCR Nasal Swab and a COVID-19 Antigen Test?