With the spread of COVID-19 still well under way in many countries, high-quality laboratory testing for the virus is the key to successful healthcare. If you are looking for a laboratory that does COVID-19 PCR testing, look no further than ATVIVO. We offer the Applied Biosystems TaqPath PCR Real-Time COVID-19 test.
COVID-19 PCR Testing
COVID-19 is the official name of the current pandemic, which stands for Coronavirus Disease 2019. It is caused by a novel coronavirus called Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). This respiratory disease is highly contagious. It is transmitted through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces.
PCR stands for Polymerase Chain Reaction. It is a molecular test that detects genetic material of SARS-CoV-2. The PCR technology test detects COVID-19 by looking out for traces of the SARS-CoV-2 genetic material from a DNA sample. These DNA samples are usually obtained from nasal swabs. It is a quick and low-cost technique that makes it possible to amplify small segments of DNA that are required for genetic and molecular analyses. There are many variants of COVID-19 including the Delta and Omicron variants. The SARS-CoV-2 RT PCR test detects all known variants. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considers the COVID-19 PCR test the "gold standard".
Normally, a large amount of DNA samples is required for genetic and molecular analyses. However, PCR makes it possible to study isolated pieces of DNA samples by amplifying small segments of DNA. When the DNA has been amplified by PCR, it can be used for the detection of SARS-CoV-2.
For PCR to work, the DNA sample has to be heated such that the DNA separates into two strands of DNA. These DNA strands are used as templates to be duplicated by PCR. The process of denaturing and synthesizing new DNA is done repeatedly until there are more than one billion exact copies of the original DNA segment.
In summary, here are the main benefits of using PCR for COVID-19 testing:
- Quick process – automated and can be finished in only a few hours
- Relatively cost-effective
- Minimally invasive as it can be performed using nasal swabs, throat swabs, and tests of saliva or other bodily fluids
- Higher sensitivity than culture
- Fewer false negative results
- Allows social distancing to take place as swabs can be taken from a variety of places, such as the patient’s home, car, clinic, or hospital
ATVIVO aims to support doctors and patients in health management. Using the latest technology, we perform accurate PCR testing for COVID-19 with a 24-hour turn-around time, 365 days a year. We customize our courier services and result delivery to meet the needs of our accounts. Our dedicated laboratory professions work under strict Quality Control guidelines so that you can be confident with the results that you receive from ATVIVO.
If you have any questions about our PCR services, feel free to contact us today. You can call ATVIVO at (855)-668-3530 or (844) 674-2886, or send an email to contact@atvivo.com.