All you need to know about Coronavirus screening : Your online pharmacy selection

What is coronavirus screening and why is it important?

Coronavirus screening, also known as COVID-19 screening, is a medical process that determines whether a person is infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The importance of this screening lies in its ability to prevent the spread of the virus by identifying positive cases and ensuring rapid treatment of infected individuals. It also helps monitor the evolution of the pandemic and adjust public health measures.

What types of test are available for coronavirus screening?

There are three main types of test used to detect the coronavirus:

1. PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction): This is the most accurate test for detecting the genetic material of the virus. It is generally performed using a nasopharyngeal swab.
2. Antigenic test: Faster than PCR, this test detects the virus' proteins and can give results in under 30 minutes.
3. Serological test: Unlike the first two, this test looks for antibodies in the blood, indicating previous exposure to the virus rather than active infection.

How does a PCR test work?

The PCR test begins with the collection of a sample, often using a swab inserted through the nose into the nasopharynx, an area of the throat behind the nose. The sample is then processed in a laboratory, where the viral RNA is converted into DNA, then amplified to facilitate detection of the virus. This process can take several hours, but is crucial to ensure accurate results.

When should I be tested for COVID-19?

Screening is recommended if you have symptoms of COVID-19, such as fever, cough, breathing difficulties, or loss of taste and smell. It is also advisable to be tested if you have been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for the virus, or before and after international travel, in accordance with local health authority guidelines.

What should I do if I test positive?

A positive test result for coronavirus requires several immediate actions:

1. Isolation: Stay away from others, especially those at high risk of serious complications.
2. Inform the health authorities: Help them trace and inform potential contacts to reduce the spread of the virus.
3. Medical follow-up: Consult a doctor to discuss next steps, especially if symptoms worsen.

Where can I get tested for COVID-19?

Screening sites vary from country to country and region to region, but generally include hospitals, health centers, pharmacies, and some centers dedicated solely to coronavirus screening. We recommend consulting your local health department's website for specific locations and procedures.

What's the difference between the rapid antigenic test and the PCR test?

The rapid antigenic test and the PCR test are both used to detect active coronavirus infection, but they differ in method and speed. The rapid antigenic test detects viral proteins and can produce results in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for large-scale testing or situations requiring immediate results. However, it is generally less accurate than the PCR test. The PCR test, on the other hand, detects the RNA of the virus, making it extremely accurate but also more expensive and time-consuming to process, with results generally available within 24 to 48 hours.

Is it necessary to repeat the screening test in certain cases?

Yes, it may be necessary to repeat the coronavirus test in certain situations. If the first test is an antigenic test and the result is negative, but symptoms persist or worsen, a PCR test is recommended to confirm or definitively rule out coronavirus infection. In addition, people exposed to the virus who initially receive a negative result may be asked to undergo a repeat test a few days later to rule out an incubating infection.

Can I be tested for COVID-19 at home?

Yes, home testing kits for coronavirus are available. These kits enable individuals to collect a sample themselves, usually by nasal or salivary swab, and send it to a laboratory for analysis, or to read the result directly at home, depending on the type of test. Although convenient, these home tests must be used in accordance with the instructions to guarantee their effectiveness, and may require confirmation by PCR test in the event of a positive or doubtful result.

How to interpret a negative test result?

A negative result means that the virus was not detected in the sample at the time of testing. However, this does not guarantee that the individual is not infected, especially if he or she has recently been exposed to the virus. It is important to continue observing preventive measures, such as wearing a mask and social distancing, as the virus may be in its incubation period and undetectable by the test at the time of testing.

What are the coronavirus screening recommendations for vaccinated individuals?

People vaccinated against COVID-19 can still be tested for the virus, particularly if they are showing symptoms or have been in close contact with an infected person. Although vaccines significantly reduce the risk of serious illness, they do not necessarily prevent infection or transmission of the virus. Screening therefore remains an important tool for managing the spread of the virus, even among vaccinated populations.