PCR is a technology for screening of Covid virus(SARS-Cov-2)

In the current date, the majority of tests performed to detect covid virus are the genetic tests called PCR.

PCR technology is used to imitate multiple copies of the unique RNA or DNA component.

PCR tests are used for screening the presence of viral RNA, which will be detectable in the body before antibodies form or show symptoms of the disease.

This means the tests can detect whether or not someone has a viral attack very early on in their infection.

*During Covid virus PCR testing, the nasopharyngeal sample or the nose swab was collected from the person.

And then taken to the lab where substances known as reverse transcriptase or DNA polymerase are added to it.

These substances replicate numerous copies of any viral RNA if present.

If enough copies of the RNA are found then they will signal a positive result.

Some probes and primers are specially formulated.

Which get attached to the viral genetic code for the signal of pathogens.

What do the Covid-19 PCR test results mean?

The positive sign indicating the presence of covid-19 infection.

The mild illness for covid-19 can be cured in the home, with no need for medical admission.

In extreme cases, it becomes very important to contact the medical team for further treatment.

If the test shows a negative report, then this means you probably don’t have an infection at the time you took your test.

Some FACTS about PCR test:-

This test shows results within 4-6 hours.

Because these covid virus tests are performed in a specific laboratory for analysis.

Up to 30 percent of the time, this gives a false report that means they can give a false positive report.

The test could also detect the fragments of the virus even after you are no longer infected which says u could also get a positive report when u feel completely fine.

What is lateral flow test or LFT?

Lateral flow tests are known as lateral flow immunocromatographic assays or rapid tests.

These are simple devices that are used to detect the presence of a target substance in a liquid sample.

‌Unlike PCR test which needs well complex laboratory equipment and highly trained staffs, lateral flow test can be done at the spot and gives result far quicker.
This gives results within 10-15 minutes.

‌The nasal or throat swab sample was taken and is deposited on a small absorbent pad contained within the disposable testing kit on it and it will show the result.

‌This testing kit is portable, simple to use and small in size, and can be administered with minimal training.

This kit contains antibodies specific to the SARs-CoV-2 virus and that how it works.

‌According to WHO the immediate diagnostic test must have a minimum sensitivity of 70% and at least 97% particularity.

The LFT is less efficient than the PCR technology.

Even though they are less accurate than PCR technology but it their ease of use makes them more attractive to the countries who have not extensive laboratory facilities.