Two types of COVID-19 tests are available:

– Antigen test, which detects the presence of COVID-19 in the body. It is a DNA test (also known as PCR) done by swabbing for lower respiratory tract specimens through the nose (also known as an NPS swab) or throat and analysed in a lab (the CDC recommends the nose swab for more accurate results).

– Antibody test, which is a blood test looking for evidence of an immunity response to the virus, which suggests current (IGM) or previous (IGG) infection to COVID-19. The blood test is performed in a clinic or hospital and analysed in a lab. A finger prick blood test is also available to do yourself from home.*

*It is important to note that this at-home test cannot be used as the sole basis for diagnosis and that further testing will be required in the event of a positive result.