Since the onset of COVID-19 in 2019, we have learned that testing is critical to diagnose and contain the spread of diseases. COVID-19 diagnostic tests may be performed to determine whether you are presently infected with the virus that causes coronavirus illness 2019 (COVID-19). Talk to an expert today if you want to learn more about federal way covid testing.
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 is a disease caused by SARS-CoV-2 that can cause a respiratory tract infection. SARS-CoV-2 was discovered as a new kind of coronavirus by the World Health Organization in early 2020. The disease swiftly spread throughout the world. It can affect your lower (lungs and windpipe) or upper respiratory tract (nose, sinuses, and throat).
It spreads similarly to other coronaviruses, mostly through person-to-person contact. Infections can range from minor to fatal.
SARS-CoV-2 is one of seven coronavirus types, including those responsible for serious infections such as sudden acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS). The other coronaviruses produce most of the colds we get throughout the year but do not substantially harm otherwise healthy people.
Types of tests for COVID-19
COVID-19 tests are divided into two groups as of August 2022:
- SARS-CoV-2 testing to look for the virus that induces COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2, in your saliva or mucus.
- Blood tests that identify past infection by looking for antibodies – proof that your immune system has already encountered the virus.
Choosing the appropriate test
The purpose determines the appropriate test. Goals may include:
- Confirming an ongoing COVID-19 infection.
- Identifying asymptomatic or pre-symptomatic persons to follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) isolation requirements.
- Determining whether someone has had COVID-19 in the past.
No single testing technique will fulfill all needs and address all problems. If you want to know if you have the virus right now, which is usually the case, you will need a diagnostic test. Virus diagnostic techniques are often either quick or laboratory testing. According to the CDC, rapid testing yields answers in minutes and can include antigen tests and certain nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), which identify RNA sequences (the virus’s genetic material).
However, if you want to know if you have ever had an illness, you should have an antibody test. Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system in response to illness. These tests are also known as serology testing.
Talk to your doctor today.
If you wish to get a COVID-19 test or suspect that you may have it, do not waste any time. Schedule a consultation with your healthcare professional right away.
