Right now, there are two types of commercially available tests: PCR-based tests and antibody tests. PCR-based tests look for the virus’s genetic material in saliva or mucus samples to diagnose people who are currently infected with the novel coronavirus. Antibody tests use blood samples to find signs
As federal officials gradually begin reopening the country, expanded testing is central to the conversation. Right now, there are two types of commercially available tests: PCR-based tests and antibody tests.
"There will never be the ability on a nucleic acid test to do 300 million tests a day or to test everybody before they go to work or to school," she said."But there might be with the antigen test.”An accurate, FDA-authorized antigen test could be a"breakthrough" innovation to help screen more people for the virus, according to Birx.Here’s what you need to know about each of these tests.
These inexpensive tests could potentially deliver results within 30 minutes. In a recent scientific briefing, the World Health Organization cautioned again the use of rapid antigen tests because the science is still so new and the tests are unreliable. Further research needs to be done, the WHO said.
Antibody tests differ from antigen tests in that they detect the presence of proteins produced by the body in response to a previous infection. While these tests cannot be used to diagnose infections, they can show whether or not an individual was infected in the past and can help track the spread of an infectious disease. Scientists are still trying to understand whether or not having antibodies will protect someone from future reinfection, and if so, for how long.
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