The world is ridden with the Coronavirus Pandemic and even though travel restrictions are not as strict as they were during the initial stages of the pandemic, RT-PCR testing is still crucial for anyone planning to travel at this time.
Real-Time RT PCR is a highly sensitive method of testing for different viruses, including the Covid-19 virus. The interesting bit about this test is that it can give you the results within an hour of being performed. Naturally, in times of peak Covid crisis, we need quick and efficient testing to be able to take subsequent actions as quickly as possible as well.
What Is Real-Time RT-PCR?
RT-PCR stands for Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction. The reaction uses RNA as testing material. RNA (ribonucleic acid) is a single-stranded nucleic acid and it is usually found in viruses as viral RNA[1]. RNA is nucleic material similar to DNA but with only one strand instead of two like DNA does.
The test used fluorescent dyes as markers to identify genetic materials[2] that are specific to the virus being tested for. In a real-time process, the scientists can identify this material while the process is ongoing instead of waiting for it to end. And this is how the results of the test can be delivered so quickly.
Conventional RT-PCR can identify the virus once the process has ended which, for covid 19, might be just too much time considering the risks involved. Many places offer Real-Time RT-PCR services however most places can take 3 hours or so to determine the results.
Very few places can offer this service with results within a single hour and one of these places includes Urgent Medical Care and MRI in New Jersey. They perform rapid testing in New Jersey, eliminating the otherwise long waiting period.
The Testing Process
Sample Collection
A swab will be inserted into your nose in order to collect a sample of respiratory material.
Extraction
This isolates genetic material found in the sample, including any material containing a virus.
Receive Results
In order to view your test results, you will receive an email with a secure direct login.
