ERMELO – Over the past year or so several people have had to get tested for Covid, there is still however some confusion relating to the different methods of testing regarding the antigen test and Covid-19 PCR test.

The Highvelder spoke to a local nurse, Ms Lizelle Clark-Halkett, about the Covid-19 antigen test versus the Covid-19 PCR test to help residents make informed decisions the next time they face a decision.

While the antigen test detects certain proteins of the virus, the PCR test detects the genetic material of the virus using a lab technique called polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results for the antigen test are available within 15 minutes, while the PCR test’s results can take up to 48 hours.

The antigen tests are done through nasal swabs.

According to Ms Clark-Halkett, the best time to do the antigen test is between three to five days after exposure.

She added that between three and five days after exposure, the antigen test is more accurate.

 The antigen test is much more cost-effective than the PCR test. 

Read more about the ways they differ in the Highvelder newspaper.