Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and rapid (antigen) tests for COVID-19 both involve taking a swab. Results for a PCR test take longer, as it needs to go to a laboratory. It is more costly but tends to ...

(CNN) -- One is widespread but has key shortages across its supply chain. One remains questionably reliable and is only helpful after the fact. And one is still early in development -- but could speed ...

Please provide your email address to receive an email when new articles are posted on . The BD MAX Respiratory Viral Panel detected and differentiated between influenza A and B respiratory syncytial ...

The rapid spread and high infection rate of the Omicron variant have prompted a run on COVID-19 tests at doctor’s offices, pharmacies, and other businesses that carry at-home tests. Making matters ...

A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test detects genetic material from a pathogen or abnormal cell sample. Ways of collecting samples include a nasal swab, a saliva swab, or taking a sample of blood.

This test detects bits of the virus itself and can tell you if you’re currently infected. Swabs are used to collect samples from the mucus membranes in the nose and throat where the virus may be ...

People often talk about COVID-19 testing like it means only one thing. But in reality, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has so far granted emergency-use authorization to more than 200 ...

We are inching close to 2022 and with festivities around the corner, the rise in COVID-19 cases is concerning. It’s important to keep getting tested when you have symptoms, have been exposed to the ...

Molecular tests are far superior to rapid antigen tests—and now you can get them for home use. Amanda Blum is a freelancer who writes about smart home technology, gardening, and food preservation.