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All over the world, infected people are tested for the presence of coronavirus to confirm the doctors’ assumptions. However, the tests are not available to all patients. How detailed is the coronavirus test? This question was asked by dr hab. n. med. Tomasz Dzieciatkowski, a virologist from the Medical University of Warsaw.
The COVID-19 coronavirus test involves taking a swab from the patient’s nostrils and throat. The sample is tested in the laboratory. There are two quick methods to confirm the presence of the coronavirus in the body. The first is a genetic (molecular) test, the results of which are available a few hours after the swabs are taken. The second is a serological test, which can also be performed on asymptomatic patients as it shows the presence of antibodies in the blood that fight the coronavirus.
- How are coronavirus tests different?
Both methods are relatively quick, but not widely used. For this reason, scientists are still working on a test that anyone could do individually at home.
- Also check out: Why doesn’t everyone with coronavirus symptoms undergo testing?
How is the coronavirus test performed? Dr hab. n. med. Tomasz Dzieiątkowski, responding, emphasized that at the moment it is not possible to perform an individual test for coronavirus. In the development, he explained that the material needed to perform the test in the laboratory is a nostril or throat swab.
- Check if you may have contracted the COVID-19 coronavirus [RISK ASSESSMENT]
The COVID-19 coronavirus test is primarily performed on patients who have clear symptoms of infection (dry cough, high fever, shortness of breath). They can also be performed among patients who have had direct contact with patients diagnosed with coronavirus, including hospital workers.
- Coverage of the COVID-19 coronavirus [Map updated]
Tests are also performed on people with characteristic symptoms returning from trips abroad. In this case, these people are often quarantined. If symptoms occur, call the hotline of the Ministry of Health or contact the nearest sanitary and epidemiological unit.
The editorial board recommends the most important articles about the coronavirus:
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Have a question about the coronavirus? Send them to the following address: [email protected] You can find a daily updated list of answers HERE: Coronavirus – frequently asked questions and answers