PCR TEST
The standard test that detects genetic material of the virus. This test uses a sample of mucus typically taken from a person's nose or throat.
PCR is used to diagnose a current infection.
Advantage: Quantified result. Can detect an infection approximately 3 days after an infection and before symptoms show. Detection is possible until 2 weeks after symptoms appear.
Disadvantage: needs 24-48h processing in a lab. More expensive than rapid tests.
RAPID ANTIGEN TEST
A rapid test that detects genetic material of the virus. This test uses a sample of saliva taken from a person's mouth.
Antigen tests are used to diagnose a current infection.
Advantage: Fast result within 15 minutes. Totally painless. Very good value for money. Can detect a virus approximately 5 days after an infection and a few days before symptoms show (if they show at all). The detection window closes after approximately 7 days after the arrival of symptoms.
Disadvantage: Qualitative result. Relatively short detection window, thus the antigen test is best used in combination with a rapid antibody test.
The Brillens Medical Rapid Antigen Test is CE-certified, Eudamed-listed and Swissmedic-compliant.
RAPID ANTIBODY TEST
A rapid test that detects an immune response (IgM and IgG antibodies) of the body to the virus. This test uses a few drops of blood taken from a person's finger.
Antibody tests are used to diagnose a current and past infection.
Advantage: Fast result within 15 minutes. Virtually painless. Very good value for money. Can detect antibodies approximately 6 days after an infection but generally only after symptoms show (if they show at all). The detection window closes after approximately 3 months (in case of a single infection).
Disadvantage: Qualitative result. Later arrival of the detection window compared to the antigen test, but antibody tests have a longer during detection window. Antibody tests are therefore best used in combination with a rapid antigen test.
The Brillens Medical Rapid Antibody Test is CE-certified, Eudamed-listed and Swissmedic-compliant.
