Covid-19
Testing Basics
Testing has become part of our daily conversation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. There are many different types of tests, and it can be hard to keep track of what each test does and when and where it’s used. As a leader in diagnostic testing, we asked our scientists to break it down for you.
Which test will tell me
if I have Covid-19?
Click to Begin
if I HAD Covid-19?
Important safety information
*Used for people suspected of having COVID-19 by their healthcare provider **Other settings include those operating under a CLIA Certificate of Waiver, Certificate of Compliance or Certificate of Accreditation. Clinicians must follow local regulations regarding site of testing and personnel performing the procedure.
*DISCLAIMERS: Time periods listed are general estimates and not indicative of a person’s immune reaction to SARS-CoV-2. The following tests have received FDA Emergency Use Authorization and have not been FDA cleared or approved: RealTime SARS-CoV-2, Alinity m SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV-2 IgG and Advise Dx SARS-CoV-2 IgM assays for use on ARCHITECT and Alinity i, ID NOW COVID-19 and BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag Card. These tests are only authorized for use for the duration of the declaration that circumstances exist justifying the authorization of emergency use of in vitro tests for detection of proteins from or antibodies against SARS-CoV-2, not for any other viruses or pathogens, under Section 564(b)(1) of the Act, 21 U.S.C. § 360bbb-3(b)(1), unless the authorization is terminated or revoked sooner. ARCHITECT is a class 1 laser product. ©2020 Abbott. All rights reserved. All trademarks referenced are trademarks of either the Abbott group of companies or their respective owners.
When the virus enters your body, it starts multiplying, and you may or may not have symptoms.
Which test will tell me if I have Covid-19?
Viral RNA
As the virus multiplies, the body begins to react to the viral antigens, possibly resulting in symptoms.
Antigen
As your body starts to fight off infection, your immune system produces IgM and IgG antibodies.
Antibody
Rapid Test
Molecular
Lab Test
LAB Test
When the Test is Used*
How the Sample is Taken
Where the test can be performed
Abbott Platform
Average Turnaround Time for Results
Antigens
Compare them all
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TERMS to KNOW
Which test will tell me if had Covid-19?
As the virus multiplies, the body begins to react to the viral antigens, possibly resulting in symptoms
Same Day
ARCHITECT (IgG & IgM)
Hospitals, Commercial Labs
Blood draw
after infection
Days
≥14
Alinity i (IgG & IgM)
and
after symptoms onset
5-7
Which test will tell me if I HAD Covid-19?
