Different Types of Coronavirus Tests

  Molecular Test Antigen Test Antibody Test

Also Diagnostic test, viral Diagnostic test Serological test,

known test, molecular test, serology, blood
as... nucleic acid test, serology
amplification test test
(NAAT), RT-PCR test,
LAMP test

How the Nasopharyngeal (the Nasal or nasalpharyngeal swab Finger stick or

sample is part of the throat (most tests) blood draw
taken... behind the nose),
nasal or throat swab
(most tests)

Saliva (a few tests)

How long Same day (some Some may be very fast (15 - 30 Same day
it takes to locations) minutes), depending on the test (many locations)
get
results... or up to a week or 1-3 days
(longer in some
locations with many
tests)

Is another This test is typically Positive results are usually Sometimes a

test highly accurate and highly accurate, but false second antibody
needed... usually does not need positives can happen, especially test is needed
to be repeated. in areas where very few people for accurate
have the virus. Negative results results.
may need to be confirmed with
a molecular test.

What it Diagnoses active Diagnoses active coronavirus Shows if you’ve

shows... coronavirus infection infection been infected by
coronavirus in
the past

What it Show if you ever had Antigen tests are more likely to Diagnose
can't do... COVID-19 or were miss an active COVID-19 COVID-19 at the
infected with the virus infection compared to molecular time of the test
that causes COVID-19 tests. Your health care provider or show that you
in the past may order a molecular test if do not have
your antigen test shows a COVID-19
negative result but you have
symptoms of COVID-19.