Usually, it takes a couple of days for the lab to process a PCR test, while you can get your rapid test results in under 30 minutes.

A rapid antigen test is a screening tool – it can indicate that you might be infected, but you need a PCR test to confirm the result.

Last week, I was about to go on a date, and because I'm severely immunocompromised, we agreed he would take a COVID test using one of my rapid home PCR tests. It was a courtesy—he felt perfectly fine— ...

But it can take hours to days to get your results, and depending on availability in your area, it may be challenging to get a PCR test when you need it most.

Currently available COVID-19 tests, including PCR tests, are designed to detect any version of SARS-CoV-2, and are not specific for different variants. When should I use an at-home test?

If the InspectIR COVID-19 Breathalyzer detects the presence of these markers, it delivers an unconfirmed positive test which InspectIR says should be confirmed with a PCR or antigen test.

Even with lesser accuracy, you can take multiple rapid tests in the time it would take to get a PCR. And with each test you take, the chance that you miss an infection falls.

PCR tests can be more accurate than antigen tests because they can detect much smaller amounts of COVID-19 genetic material in your sample. A positive test result indicates the presence of the virus.

For any American wondering if they have Covid-19, there are two kinds of tests available: polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and rapid antigen (sometimes just called “rapid tests”). The two tests ...

A PCR test is often considered the gold standard for detecting coronavirus infection. It’s the test some employers want employees to take before returning to work after having Covid-19, and the ...

New COVID-19 restrictions for international travel and other activities are fueling consumer demand for highly accurate polymerase chain reaction, or PCR, tests with rapid turnaround times. Some ...

Flu tests are important as they speed up the treatment process and help stop the flu from spreading. This article examines how long flu tests take, test types, accuracy, and more.