What is a COVID-19 PCR test?

PCR test is the “gold standard” test for screening COVID-19 because it’s the most accurate and reliable test.

We use the technology of the Allplex™ 2019-nCoV Assay, which  is a real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test.

How does a COVID-19 PCR test work?

There are three key steps to the COVID-19 PCR test: 1) sample collection, 2) extraction, and 3) PCR.

1. Sample collection is done using a swab to collect respiratory material found in your throat. A swab contains a soft tip on a long, flexible stick that is inserted into your throat or nose. After collection, the swab is sealed in a tube and then sent for extraction.

2. When a laboratory technologist receives the sample, they perform a process called extraction, which isolates genetic material from the sample including genetic material from any virus that may be present.

3. The PCR step then uses special chemicals and a PCR machine.