To diagnose and confirm Covid-19 infection, symptomatic and asymptomatic patients may undergo Covid Tests.
The different types of Covid Tests available in Nagaland are:
- Rapid Antigen Test (RAT)
Nasal samples are collected and tested for antigens, which are found in the SARS-CoV-2 virus. This test is used to quickly obtain a diagnostic result.
Positive results are (in general) confirmatory. Negative results in a symptomatic person require further RT PCR/CBNAAT/TRUENAT test.
- RT-PCR
RTPCR stands for Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction. It is also known as Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction.
A sample is collected from deep inside the patient’s nose and the back of the throat with a swab. The sample is then sent to the laboratory for analysis where an RT-PCR machine is used to detect the virus.
Positive results are indicative of the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA. However, clinical correlation with patient history and other diagnostic information is necessary to determine patient infection status.
A single negative test result, particularly if this is from an upper respiratory tract specimen, does not exclude infection. Repeat sampling and testing of the lower respiratory specimen are strongly recommended in severe or progressive disease. The repeat specimens may be considered after a gap of 2 – 4 days after the collection of the first specimen for additional testing if required.
- TruNAT
A TrueNat machine detects the RdRp enzyme found in the virus RNA in nasal or oral swabs.
TruNat test works on the same principle as RT-PCR. However, it has a smaller kit and produces faster results. TruNat is not only used to detect Covid but also for detecting tuberculosis and HIV.
(Source: Covid19 Portal Nagaland Govt.)