Genome sequencing is needed to find that out. Ordinarily, a RT-PCR test indicates whether or not you have a SARS-COV-2 infection but not which variant you have. The highly mutated Omicron variant appears to still be detected by both RT-PCR and rapid antigen tests. How does the Omicron variant affect testing? Test sensitivity will be highest when the viral load is at its peak. If you don't have symptoms, taking the test two to three times over a week can help improve test sensitivity because viral load waxes and wanes. If you're part of a surveillance program, take the test when you are asked to. It depends on the reason you are taking the test. How often should I take a rapid antigen test? While a negative rapid antigen test result is not a guarantee that you aren't infected, it does provide more protection for your contacts than not testing. In other words, it can indicate that you might be infected, but a RT-PCR test is needed to confirm the result. The rapid antigen test is considered to be a screening tool. Are part of a regular COVID surveillance program (some workplaces require it, particularly in situations where the person is not fully vaccinated).

Want to quickly check whether you might have a SARS-CoV-2 infection.Ħ. Are going to an event where lots of people will be mixing, particularly if it's being held indoors where the risk of transmission is considerably higher.ĥ.

Have COVID symptoms but can't get to a PCR testing site.Ĥ. Are planning to have contact with someone at high risk from COVID (for example, an elderly person or someone on immunosuppressive treatment), and you want to protect them.ģ. Are planning to visit a sensitive site (for example, an aged care facility)Ģ. 5 Are required to by a health department to get permission to travel to a location.Ī RT-PCR is the test of choice in these situations because it is more accurate at diagnosing an infection.ġ. 4 Are required to by your health department to be released from quarantine or isolation. 3 Do a rapid antigen test and get a positive result, because PCR confirmation is required. 2 Have a known exposure to someone with COVID. Take a RT-PCR test if you: 1 Have COVID symptoms.

This rose to 100% when people were tested within a week of the onset of symptoms. While both tests are more likely to correctly detect an infection when the person's viral load is high, RT-PCR tests are more sensitive than rapid antigen tests.Ī study comparing the sensitivity (correctly diagnosing SARS-CoV-2 infection when you have it) of one type of rapid antigen test compared to a PCR test, found 77% of positive antigen test results aligned with RT-PCR test results. Can be done in the home compared to having to line up and wait for a swab, which then has to be analysed in a laboratory.īut they're less sensitive than a RT-PCR test because there is no amplification process. Quicker than PCR tests (15-20 minutes versus hours to days to get a result)Ģ.

Take a rest synonym