With more than 26 million people vaccinated (as of March 19, 2021) with the first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine in the UK, simultaneous lockdowns still happen because some people continue to contract the virus. In the city of Cambridge alone, 5256 residents tested positive for COVID-19.
The country continues to push its effort to monitor people using standard practices like thermal scanning, health interviews, PCR tests in Cambridge. Tourists who also wish to travel need to present COVID fit-to-fly certificates to ensure safety.
Governments worldwide heavily rely on coronavirus testing to safely usher people back to their workplaces and everyday life. But with the many options for COVID-19 testing, one might ask which is best should they plan to get tested?
PCR Test
Also known as RT-PCR test, or reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction is a test that doctors advised to people who may be feeling symptoms related to contracting coronavirus. Many reputable companies across the UK created test kits for people who don’t want to step outside their houses for safety reasons.
In a matter of 24 hours after the initial swabbing of the nose, results are available with a turnaround time of 2-3 days for observation purposes.
Rapid Antigen Test
“Rapid test” as it is commonly known, only takes 20-30 minutes for the result to come out, the reason why many companies choose this kind of COVID-19 testing because they have a large number of people working for them. To add, the rapid antigen test cost is less expensive.
However, this type of antigen test can produce false-positive results; the reason for another round of test rapid test, or PCR test to be conducted.
To learn more about the difference between these two, check out this Harley Medic International Infographic.
PCR Test Vs. Rapid Antigen Test, What are the Difference?
More and more people are getting vaccinated as 2021 entered while control measures are still in effect to help stop the spread of the coronavirus from affecting the elderly and those in vulnerable health.
In the UK alone, 26 million people have already received their first dose of the vaccine, while standard practices such as thermal scans and health declaration interviews. In Leeds, people head out for the last hurrah before pubs are again closed due to community lockdown as more people contract the virus, as shown by the results of PCR tests in Leeds.
Many testing centers are open to provide tests (RT-PCR and Rapid Antigen Test) daily that can help local tourism to ask travelers to present fit to fly certificate in Leeds as they stay in the city; but what are the difference between these two?
PCR Test
The RT-PCR test is also known as reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. It is a clinical test that doctors worldwide to confirm if a person is infected with the COVID-19 virus. Its highly accurate results make companies want it for their employees before going back to the workplace to avoid infection spread.
In less than 24 hours, results are readily available, and it takes 2-3 days for its turnaround time. People who are experiencing the symptoms are encouraged to undergo PCR Test.
Rapid Antigen Test
Also known as “rapid test,” it is done pretty much like the PCR test through a nasopharyngeal swab. While a PCR test displays result in less than 24 hours, this test only takes less than an hour to release a result.
Companies and travel people who need to obtain results fast opt for the rapid antigen test as it is also budget-friendly.
Check out this Harley Medic International Infographic to learn more about the difference between these two.