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PCR Tests
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Antigen Tests
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Antibody Tests
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Concept
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SARS-CoV-2 has genetic material in the form of RNA. Presence of COVID-19 specific viral RNA from patient samples indicate that the patient is SARS-CoV-2 infected.
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Antigens are present on the surface of the virus. Presence of COVID-19-specific antigen in patient SARS-CoV-2 virussamples indicate that the patient is SARS-CoV-2 infected.
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Production of antibodies are triggered after COVID-19 infection. Status of infection can be confirmed by detecting the presence of IgM or IgG antibodies in patient blood samples.
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Testing Principle
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PCR tests amplify and detect targeted region of SARS-CoV-2 genetic material.
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Antigen tests detect SARS-CoV-2 antigen in patient samples.
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Antibody tests detect IgM and IgG antibodies targeting SARS-CoV-2 in patient samples.
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Sample Type
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Nasal, nasopharyngeal swab, oropharyngeal swab, deep throat saliva
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Nasal, nasopharyngeal swab, oropharyngeal swab
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Blood (Whole blood, plasma, serum)
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Biomarker
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SARS-CoV-2 virus
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SARS-CoV-2 antigen
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SARS-CoV-2 IgM and IgG antibodies
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Suitable period for use
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From onset of infection
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From 2 days after infection
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From 7 days after infection
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Operation
Time
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4-6 hours
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Around 20 minutes
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Around 20 minutes
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Operation Requirements
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Professional medical operator and lab equipment
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No professional operator or equipment required
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No professional operator or equipment required
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