COVID-19 Testing: PCR, Antigen, and Antibody Tests Explained
COVID-19 testing has evolved since the pandemic's onset, offering various options to detect active infections or past exposure. The Swiss health authorities, while focusing on vaccination, do not provide specific guidance on antibody tests' timing post-infection.
PCR tests, considered the gold standard, can detect the virus even at low levels but may yield false negatives if taken too early. Rapid antigen tests, though convenient, may miss infections due to low viral load. Molecular tests like PCRs are generally more accurate than antigen tests.
Antibody or serology tests, however, serve a different purpose. They cannot detect active infections but can indicate past exposure or immunity. This is useful as at least one-third of COVID-19 cases are asymptomatic, with nearly 75% of PCR-positive individuals remaining symptom-free.
Currently, the Swiss Federal Office for Public Health (BAG) and the Swiss Commission for Vaccination Issues (EKIF) do not provide specific recommendations on when to perform an antibody test post-infection, except for vulnerable individuals. They emphasize vaccination for high-risk groups.
Given the rising cases of the Omicron subvariant BA.5 in the US, understanding the different testing options is crucial. While rapid antigen and molecular tests can detect active infections, antibody tests help determine past exposure. Consult a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate test based on your symptoms and exposure history.
