Polilab in Catania carries out Covid tests to detect infection from COVID-19 (Coronavirus). The results are usually valid up to 48 hours for Rapid Antigen tests and up to 72 hours for PCR tests.

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FAQs and information on Covid Antigen/Lateral Flow Test

With the increased risk of every other person developing the Coronavirus due to its increased prevalence, testing for COVID-19 has become the new normal. The COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test or the Lateral Flow Test is one of such quick tests that allow a person’s Covid positive or negative status to be confirmed in no time. The testing kit resembles a pregnancy urine test. This is the most common type of test used to prove that you are currently infected when travelling abroad. This test is performed using a sample from the nose or throat using a swab that comes in the kit. The swab with the collected sample (fluid) is then deposited in a tube and poured on a self-absorbent pad. The fluid gets sucked up through capillary action from this pad until it is placed on a strip coated with Covid antibodies. If the oropharyngeal sample of the person contains the virus, a coloured line appears, marking the patient as positive. The Lateral Flow Test for Covid has transformed the testing mechanism for COVID-19 and made it much easier for everyone to get it done in no time! It is usually recommended that a person gets a Covid Lateral Flow test done if they have developed any of the following symptoms: - Fever with chills - Cough - Congestion - Shortness of breath - Muscular or body aches - Loss of taste or smell - Diarrhoea - Nausea or vomiting.

Common conditions covered by a Covid Antigen/Lateral Flow Test

COVID-19, Influenza, Tuberculosis, HIV, Hepatitis C, SARS-CoV-2, Acute respiratory distress

What are the symptoms of Covid?

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness, and dry cough. Some patients may have aches and pains, nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat or diarrhoea. These symptoms are usually mild and gradually start. Some people become infected but do not develop any symptoms and do not feel bad. Most people (about 80%) cured of the disease without requiring special care. About 1 in 6 people who contract the COVID-19 became seriously ill and develop difficulty breathing. Older people and those with underlying medical problems such as hypertension, heart problems or diabetes are more likely to develop serious diseases. People with fever, cough and difficulty breathing should seek medical advice.

How long it takes to get the result of a rapid test?

The rapid antigen tests are designed for quick results and rapid detection of the new coronavirus. Usually, you can get results from an antigen test within 15 minutes. This is because the test does not require any specialized laboratory equipment and can easily be performed in a doctor's office or clinical setting. Keep in mind that increased testing across the nation can mean a more significant burden on laboratories, which may contribute to longer waiting times than usual for a lab result.

Who should have a lateral flow test?

People in a high-risk environment can have a lateral flow test as it is faster. Now, self-testing kits are also available.

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