A. Yes! With more and more ways to test for COVID-19, it’s definitely tough to keep track of everything out there!
But before we talk about the different options, it’s important to keep in mind that there are tests that assess ACTIVE (or CURRENT) infection (molecular tests), and then there are tests that assess PAST infection by the presence of antibodies in the blood (serological tests).
Several of our posts have already touched on the subject of antibody testing (PAST infection), which relies on blood draws.
Here we focus on ways to test for ACTIVE (or CURRENT) infection.
With states reopening, and with several states experiencing concerning increases in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, it’ll be good to keep up to date with all the testing options:
1. Provider-administered nasal swab test for COVID-19:
Involves inserting a 6-inch long swab into the back of the nasal passage through the nostril and rotating the swab several times for 15 seconds
Over 30 tests with FDA authorization
Locations: most doctor’s offices, pharmacies, and drive-thru facilities
Time to results: 2-7 days, depending on location
2. Point-of-care swab/rapid tests:
Uses nasal swab that is inserted into a portable testing instrument
Tests by Abbott, Mesa Biotech, and Cepheid have FDA authorization
Location: Used in urgent care clinics, hospital emergency departments, and physicians’ offices with priority for healthcare personnel
Time to results: 5 min -45 min, depending on test
Note: FDA has expressed concerns about false negatives; anyone who tests negative should confirm the result with a second test
3. At-home tests using nasal swabs:
Uses swabs that only need to go as far as the nostril, instead of deeper into the nasal passage
Examples: Pixel by LabCorp and Everlywell
Time to results: 24 hours – 5 days of the lab receiving the sample, depending on company
4. At-home tests using saliva samples:
Involves collection of saliva tube, often under the supervision of a clinician (virtually)
Test kits include a collection device to collect your saliva (instead of deep nose or throat swabs) and the sample is then mailed to the lab for processing
Examples: Hims and Vault Health
Time to results: 2-3 days from when sample is received
NOTE: the FDA advises anyone who tests negative with the saliva-based test to confirm the results with a second testing method
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Currently, the FDA has not authorized any tests to be entirely used and processed at home.
For more on the science behind both the molecular AND serological tests, as well as the methods and availability of the different tests, see here.
