PCR testing 

 

The full genome of the novel coronavirus was published on January 10 of this year, just weeks after the disease was first identified in Wuhan, China. A week later, a group of researchers led by German scientists released the first diagnostic protocol for COVID-19 using swabbed samples from a patient’s nose and throat; this PCR-based protocol has since been selected by the World Health Organization (WHO).

 

It takes from 24 to 48 hours to get a definitive result.

 

The COVID-19 tests developed by the Centers for Protection and Disease Control (CDC), as well as those developed in Washington and New York, are PCR tests.

 

PCR tests work by detecting specific genetic material within the virus.

 

Depending on the type of PCR: 

take a saliva sample;

swab the back of the throat;

collect a liquid sample from the lower respiratory tract;

or collect a stool sample.