Let’s break down the difference between the PCR COVID-19 Tests and the Rapid COVID-19 tests: PCR While PCR is similar to rapid COVID-19 tests, they are usually administered to patients with or without symptoms and are often conducted through a nasopharyngeal swab. PCR COVID-19 tests show some of the most accurate results over other tests that are available, this is due to the polymerase chain reaction which identifies the viral genetic material of COVID-19. The genetic material that is detected if a person is actively infected with COVID-19, or has previously had it recently will show a positive result. The only negative to a PCR test is the fact that it takes much longer than the rapid COVID-19 test. Rapid COVID Antigen These will often be administered to individuals both with or without symptoms, the same as a PCR test. However, the test uses collections from the nose or throat secretions using the nasopharyngeal swab and is then examined for the protein fragments which are specific to the COVID-19 virus. Rapid COVID Antigen tests yield quite fast results, usually in under 15 minutes; however, they are considered less accurate than the PCR test. For more information, call us today or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Alexandria VA, and Ruther glen VA. We serve patients from Alexandria VA, Ruther Glen VA, Bagdad VA, Athens VA, Balty VA, and Doswell VA.