Testing Methods for SARS-Cov-2
There are two kinds of tests available for COVID-19: viral tests and antibody tests. RT-PCR test and antigen test are both viral test which detects the presence of SAR-CoV-2 from upper respiratory samples. The RT-PCR test targets the genomic information of the virus (RNA); however, the COVID-19 antigen test kit detects pieces of proteins that make up the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The WHO recommends both RT-PCR tests and antigen tests for the diagnosis of active coronavirus infection. Please visit the US FDA page for more information about Coronavirus Testing Basics