PCR stand for polymerase chain reaction test. There are many different reasons why you may need to book a covid test, for example if you are travelling to a country requiring you do so prior to entering.
By now, you've most likely taken a PCR test, but you may still have questions about the process.
What is a PCR COVID test?
A PCR COVID test looks for evidence that the virus is currently in your body by detecting its presence in a swab sample from your nose or throat. Therefore, a PCR test can only tell you if the virus is currently present in the body. It cannot show whether you have had the virus previously. This test is sometimes also referred to as an RNA, genetic, molecular, viral detection or swab test.
How does PCR testing work?
The PCR test detects coronavirus in a sample by detecting the genetic material in the virus called RNA. When the sample reaches the lab, a 'reagent' solution is added to it. If there is virus present, this reagent starts a 'chain reaction' and creates billions of copies of the genetic material in the virus so that there is enough that it can be detected and analysed by scientists to provide a positive result.
How do you use a PCR home test?
You can get a PCR COVID test at a test centre or test yourself at home and send it off to a lab. A trained person will perform the test for you in many testing centres. If you're at a self-test site and need support, you can ask one of the trained helpers present to guide you. If you're performing a self-test at home, make sure to read and follow the instructions carefully.
What’s in a PCR test kit?
Home test kits contain:
- A swab
- A tube with liquid inside
- A clear zip-lock bag with an absorbent pad
- A bag with a QR code
- Three stickers
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A packaging box
- The NHS recommends following these steps if you're doing a PCR test at home
- Read the instructions that come with your test kit
- Before you begin, blow your nose
- Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds or use hand sanitiser
- Place your test kit on a clean surface such as a table
- Remove the swab from the packet from the stick end. Do not touch the swab's fabric tip or let it touch anything else
- Using a mirror, take a look at the back of your throat, at your tonsil area. You must not let the swab touch your teeth, tongue or gums
Holding the stick end of the swab, open your mouth and rub the fabric tip of the swab over your tonsils for 10 seconds. It is normal to find this a bit uncomfortable. Remove the swab carefully without touching anything else inside of your mouth.
Now put the same swab up your nostril until you feel it can't go any further.
This is usually about 2.5cm (1 inch). Once inside, rotate the swab for 10 to 15 seconds inside your nose.
Unscrew the cap off your sample tube and insert the swab fabric end first into the tube.
Snap off the stick at the breaking point. This helps ensure no germs from your hands mix with your test.
Screw the cap onto the tube tightly.
Clean your hands again. Put the absorbent pad into the zip-lock bag, then place the tube pad in the same bag. Seal the bag. Put the zip-lock bag into the biohazard bag. Make sure the barcode on the plastic tube matches the barcode on the biohazard bag. Seal the bag using its silver seal.
Assemble the return box, following the instructions on the box and put the biohazard bag into the box and close the box. Apply the security seal as directed on the package.
The box will already have a return address on the label. You can send it to the lab using a priority post box or by booking a courier by calling 119. Results should be sent by text or email to whoever booked the test within 48 hours.
