TYPES OF COVID-19 TESTING AVAILABLE AT GEMINI URGENT CARE
Gemini Urgent Care is proud to offer rapid antigen testing for acute illness due to COVID-19 in our community. If you have experienced any of the common symptoms of COVID-19, or believe that you have come in contact with a person who has tested positive, it’s best to be tested. Learn your options below:
RAPID ANTIGEN COVID-19 TESTING
A rapid antigen COVID-19 test molecules on the surface of the coronavirus, meaning this test can tell you if you are currently infected with COVID-19. This test is similar to a rapid strep test in nature and has been most commonly used to diagnose patients who are having symptoms.
At the appointment, one of our technicians will use a nose swab to take your sample. We will then run the sample and let you know your results in as little as 15 minutes.
PCR COVID-19 TESTING
A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) COVID-19 test looks for genetic material in your sample that is associated with the novel coronavirus. According to the Texas State Department of Health Services, PCR tests look for pieces of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 to determine if the person has an active infection.
This test is more in-depth than rapid testing and takes 45 minutes to come back. A technician will use a nasal swab to perform the test, similarly to the rapid antigen test. Though this test takes the longest, it is the most accurate test available to determine if you are currently positive for COVID-19.
RAPID ANTIBODY COVID-19 TESTING
An antibody (serology) COVID-19 test can tell you if you have developed antibodies to the coronavirus either from a previous infection or from immunization. It takes about 1-3 weeks to develop antibodies. This test result will indicate that you’ve contracted the virus but are not currently sick or have developed immunity from the vaccination, and is not suitable for patients who are currently experiencing symptoms.
During the antibody test, one of our technicians will take a small sample of your blood via a finger prick. Results may take up to 3-5 days and we will contact you directly to let you know your test results.
COVID-19 TESTING APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE AT GEMINI URGENT CARE
It’s important to note that false negatives are possible with COVID-19 testing, though positive test results are highly accurate. If you do choose to be tested for COVID-19, you should quarantine at home while you await your pending test results.
If you believe that you may have come in contact with a person who has tested positive for COVID-19 and wish to be tested, stop by Gemini Urgent Care today.