What It Is
The IC Labs COVID-19 RT-PCR is a real time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction test that uses a sample taken from a nasal swab to detect the ribonucleic acid (RNA) from SARS-CoV-2, commonly known as the coronavirus. It is also known as a molecular test, nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT), RT-PCR test and a LAMP test.
If this diagnostic test is positive, it means that it has detected the virus’ genetic material and the person is CURRENTLY infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Once the infection is gone, the RNA disappears, and the test will be negative.
A positive test is considered very accurate, but it’s possible to be infected with the virus and have a negative RNA result. Testing less than five to six days after exposure to the corona virus is likely to produce a negative RNA result. No Covid-19 test is 100% accurate, so it’s important to follow Covid-19 guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, such as social distancing.
This test is suitable for humans of any age, including infants.
We utilize the Thermo Fisher 7500 Real-Time PCR Covid-19 Assay. This test uses multiplex diagnostic solution technology and has been authorized by the FDA under an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for use by authorized laboratories.