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Rapid COVID-19 Testing

Results within 3-5 hours.

Why Rapid Testing

Rapid COVID-19 testing is essential when you need results the same day and need to provide results that you or your family is not positive with COVID-19. There are two methods for rapid COVID-19 testing which are Rapid PCR Testing and Rapid Antigen Testing. You should use a rapid test if you need quick results to show you are not positive with COVID-19.

Schools, businesses, and travel companies may require negative Covid-19 results.

· Provide results to show your employer you can return to work

· Provide results to show kids can return to school

· Provide Rapid PCR results that allow you to travel by air, train, or boat


There are two types of Rapid COVID-19 tests that detect the coronavirus.

Accula Rapid PCR Tests – $200

Rapid PCR tests are the Gold Standard and molecular based, so it’s looking for genetic material from the virus in the mucus and infected cells in the sample from the patient. The sample is collected by inserting a cotton swab up the nose. The tip of the cotton swab is inserted into both nostrils. The swab does not need to be inserted far, just until the cotton tip of the swab is no longer visible. The swab is then rotated in a circle around the entire inside edge of each nostril at least three times. The collected material is then added to a tube of fluid and tested.

Benefits of a Rapid PCR Test:

· Highly reliable molecular test

· Accurate results in 3-5 hours

· May be used for travel requirements

Sofia® Rapid Antigen Test – $50

The other style of rapid test looks for antigens of the virus, which are proteins on the surface of the virus. The cells are collected in the same way as a PCR test with a nasal swab. This test involves collecting nose secretions via nasopharyngeal swab and then examining them for protein fragments specific to the COVID-19 virus. While these tests provide quick results, they are generally considered to be less accurate than PCR tests. When administered while someone is at the peak of their infection, rapid antigen tests generally provide accurate results as this is when virus levels in the body are the highest.

Benefits of a Rapid Antigen Test:

· Fast Results

· Results in as little as 1 hour

What you need to know about testing for travel

Requirements vary by destination.

It is your responsibility to select the correct test type for your destination and to get tested at the proper time to get a valid result.

Test types and turnaround times are listed when you schedule your test.

The RT-PCR COVID-19 Test has been released under FDA Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the detection of nucleic acid from SARS-CoV-2 (the virus responsible for COVID-19 infection), and can be used in applications that require molecular/ RT-PCR testing. Please consult your state health department for additional information regarding specific uses (such as pre and post travel requirements). This test is an RT-PCR, molecular test which satisfies most travel requirements; however, it is the purchaser’s responsibility to verify the test will be accepted for travel prior to purchase.

Please note that most travel restrictions require that a traveler’s test specimen IS COLLECTED within 72 hours prior to arrival at a destination.

CDC COVID-19 Travel Recommendations by Destination –
https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/map-and-travel-notices.html

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