Relevant Uses of SARS-Cov-2 Tests in the Detection & Prevention of COVID-19

All individuals who demonstrate COVID-19-like symptoms and other people with high-risk SARS-CoV-2 exposures should opt for the SARS-CoV-2 test to determine whether infected or not. Such testing should implement NAAT (Nucleic Acid Amplification Test) or SARS-CoV-2, an antigen test for accurately detecting the infection. Testing may be necessary to screen and determine the longevity of the isolation period for a specific patient. According to CDC, the purpose of diagnostic testing is for identifying the current infection in people and is applicable when someone demonstrates symptoms or signs of COVID-19. Moreover, testing is vital in asymptomatic people with suspected or known exposure to somebody with confirmed or suspected SARS-CoV-2 infection.

The purpose of screening testing is for identifying individuals with COVID-19 among asymptomatic people with no suspected or unknown exposure to the deadly SARS-CoV-2. Hence, screening is crucial for identifying cases that are still asymptomatic to take proactive measures in preventing transmission. Public health surveillance test is to keep monitoring the incidence of the disease at the population level. We understand surveillance tests are predominantly to obtain valuable information and data at the public or population level. The results of the surveillance tests are not revealed to the individuals concerned. The testing reports cannot play a role in somebody’s healthcare-related decision-making. Here are some prominent uses of SARS-Co-2 and COVID-19 tests.

To Identify Patients with Infection for Safeguarding Others

It is crucial to find out if you are infected with the deadly virus. The purpose of testing is to know if you are infectious and pose a risk to others. Testing reveals if you need to be in home quarantine, and your doctor or healthcare provider will tell you how long you should remain in isolation to prevent the spread of the infection from you to others in your proximity. Today, SARS-CoV-2 kit is available for speedy and accurate testing.

In this context, we need to know that symptoms of influenza, COVID-19, and other respiratory issues are almost similar. It may become challenging for your doctor or healthcare provider to determine the right course of treatment based on the symptoms and signs alone. Rapid results are excellent for patients to gain a sound knowledge of the underlying cause of the disease when symptoms are not good enough.

Rapid Testing Whenever Necessary

It is challenging to face and get ready for an endemic phase when flu and COVID-19 are present sides by side. Rapid tests play a pivotal role, and their testing capabilities may be increased to their utmost limits in case there is an explosion of cases. Rapid testing is the most feasible option in case of outbreaks. Widespread testing is possible even without any laboratory infrastructure or lab instruments. Moreover, rapid testing capacity may be remarkably scaled up according to the rising needs.

Allows for Quick Diagnosis to Pick a Line of Treatment

The COVID-19 pandemic coincided with several emerging strains of the flu. This poses a significant challenge for medical professionals, as they need to make quick decisions about the course of treatment. With the patient’s life on the line, a rapid antigen test is the best choice as it can use a single sample to definitively differentiate between infection of Influenza A/B and SARS-CoV-2.

Conclusion: Optimizing the Healthcare Process

An affordable, sensitive, and efficient rapid testing methodology for any pandemic-level infection can help turn the tide and save many lives. This reliable antigen test has quickly become another tool in the arsenal of HCPs to be able to diagnose patients and put them on a tailored treatment plan. With viral infections, being able to administer effective treatments at an early stage can reduce symptoms, provide quick relief, and sometimes be the deciding factor that saves the patient’s life. They are also great for potentially infected patients who can immediately begin isolation or treatment once they realize they are infected.