Rapid tests, which are carried out at the airport, are based on the search for virus antigens, which are proteins on the surface of the virus. Mucus and cells are collected in the same way as in a PCR test, but these tests may not require a laboratory to determine the results. For diagnostics, flat plastic cards with test strips are used.
The test strip reacts with the coronavirus antigens present in the patient's mucus sample, and the strip usually changes color to indicate that antibodies are found in the biomaterial. Typically, the test time is 15 to 30 minutes.