Diagnosing COVID-19
COVID-19 is a respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus named SARS-CoV-2. It is very contagious and spreads through person-to-person contact. COVID-19 may be a mild illness with symptoms like those of the flu, or it can be a severe illness that results in hospitalization. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to reduce the risk of severe disease.
COVID-19 is diagnosed based upon testing for the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in nasal secretions or respiratory mucus. COVID-19 is not diagnosed based upon symptoms alone due to the similarity of flu symptoms. The two main types of tests for the COVID-19 virus are:
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests: This lab will test for genetic material (RNA) from the virus. It may take up to 3 days to receive the results. The advantage of a PCR test is it is more likely to detect the virus than antigen tests and may detect the virus earlier than the antigen tests.
- Antigen tests: These tests are rapid tests that usually provide a result in 15-30 minutes. A positive antigen test is considered accurate and reliable. However, antigen tests are generally less like to detect the virus, especially in people who do not have symptoms. Repeat testing may be needed to confirm a negative result. The advantage of antigen test is at-home testing with rapid results.
Its important to note that antibody tests determine whether someone has had a past infection by detecting antibodies in their blood. They are not used to determine if a person currently has COVID-19 illness.
Additional examinations, tests, and procedures may be done to assess the extent or severity of COVID-19, including:
- Medical History and Physical Evaluation: Doctors evaluate a person's symptoms, medical history and physical examination findings to determine severity of COVID-19 and presence of risk factors for severe COVID-19. A pulse oximeter may be used to check for the level of oxygen in the blood.
- Sputum or Nasal Secretion Testing: A COVID-19 test may be performed to confirm a home test result or if the person has not yet been tested. An influenza test may also be done to check for co-existing infection.
- Blood Testing: A blood sample may be sent to the lab to look for signs of infection or check the health of the other organs that could be affected by COVID-19.
- Imaging Procedures: A chest X-ray or CT scan may be done to check for lung problems caused by COVID-19.
It's important to note that diagnosing COVID-19 and severe COVID-19 requires medical expertise and should be done by healthcare professionals. If you suspect you have COVID-19 or have any concerns, it's best to consult with your doctor who can guide you through the appropriate diagnostic process based on your specific situation.