COVID-19 Rapid testing is available for screening and no appointment is needed.

WHAT IS A RAPID COVID TEST?

Antigen test (frequently referred to as a Rapid test). This test detects protein fragments specific to the Coronavirus. It can be done in a clinic, doctor’s office, or hospital. Turnaround time for results is usually very quick and in some cases, results can be reported within 15 minutes.

WHO SHOULD GET A RAPID TEST?

Rapid tests are considered most accurate in a patient who is having symptoms of COVID-19. While the rapid test can get you results very quickly, the results may not always be accurate, especially if done too early to detect the antigen.

WHAT DOES A FALSE NEGATIVE OR FALSE POSITIVE MEAN?

The false-positive rate — meaning I test positive but I do not really have the disease — is quite low. So, if you test positive from a rapid test it is more likely you do have the disease.

In those who don’t have symptoms, the false negative rate — meaning my test is negative but I actually have the disease. This typically caused by the fact that your body has not built up enough protein fragments for the test to detect yet. A repeated Rapid test in the next 24-48 hours or a PCR test will likely show positive results.