What is RT-PCR test?
RT-PCR Test means real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction test. RT-PCR test procedure is used for detecting nucleic acid from SARS-CoV-2 in nasopharyngeal or oropharyngeal swab specimens from people who have been diagnosed with COVID-19. This is accomplished by utilising fluorescence to monitor the amplification reaction, a technique known as quantitative PCR (qPCR). It allows professionals to immediately review the outcomes. One of the most extensively utilised methods for detecting COVID-19 is RT-PCR.
RT-PCR is a laboratory technique involving reverse transcription (RT) of viral RNA into DNA and then this Complementary DNA is amplified by the help of another technique called polymerase chain reaction (PCR). It helps to detect even a very low concentration of virus at the time by amplification of DNA even when symptoms of the disease are not visible.
Mandatory requirements for RT-PCR test
No documents are needed at the time of booking and the customer only needs to provide with some basic customer details. After booking the slot, customers must fill out the ICMR Specimen Referral Form for 2019-Covid19. During the time of sample collection, the customer is required to provide Govt. Approved photo ID (Aadhar Card, Voter ID, Passport, Driving Licence) along with the booking ID
When should you get the test done
If you experience any one of the symptoms of corona virus, It is advisable to get the Covid-19 RT-PCR test done, in accordance with the ICMR guidelines.
The most common Covid-19 symptoms are fever, dry cough, and fatigue. Headache, Chills, disorientation, Muscle or joint discomfort, Loss of taste or smell, Nasal congestion, Conjunctivitis (commonly known as red eyes), Sore throat, Nausea or vomiting, different types of skin rash, or Diarrhea are some of the less common symptoms that may afflict some people.
Irritability, anxiety, depression, diminished consciousness, and sleeping difficulties are some of the mental symptoms that an infected person may experience.
People of all ages should seek medical attention right away if they have a fever and/or a cough that is accompanied by trouble breathing or shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure, or loss of speech or movement. If at all possible, contact your health care provider, hotline, or health facility first so that you can be directed to the appropriate clinic.
Cost of RT PCR
SpiceHealth’s RT-PCR testing labs in Indiahave been successfully conducting the country’s cheapest RT-PCR tests starting from just Rs. 399/- .The mobile labs are located at accessible locations. The walk-in facility provides safe testing experience. Beside affordable pricing and advanced care, SpiceHealth uses high quality equipment and expert team to generate accurate results.
What is the RT-PCR test procedure?
Sample collection is done using a swab to collect respiratory material found in your nose. he RT-PCR test identifies viral particles in patients using nasopharyngeal swabs, oropharyngeal swabs, throat swabs, and nasal swabs.
With the use of an RT-PCR test kit, trained specialists perform the test. The swab is sealed in a tube and shipped to a covid-19 testing laboratory after collection.
It also involves the extraction of Covid-19 virus genetic material (RNA). The PCR stage subsequently employs a PCR machine called a thermal cycler to amplify the genetic material of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. If the virus is present, one of the probes/chemicals creates a fluorescent light throughout this procedure
WHAT ARE THE RT-PCR TEST PROTOCOLS?
The quantification of mRNA using RT-PCR can be achieved as a one-step or a two-step reaction. The difference between the two approaches lies in the number of tubes used when performing the procedure.
In one-step protocol, the (RT) reverse transcription and PCR components are mixed in a single tube and buffer at the same time. There is relatively less experimental variation since both reactions take place in the same tube and fewer pipetting steps reduce risk of contamination. It is suitable for amplifying targets that are reasonably abundant.
In two-step protocols, the reverse transcription (RT) and PCR steps are performed in separate tubes, and reaction conditions. Here, a stable complementary DNA (cDNA) pool is generated and can be stored for long periods of time. Also, the genes can be amplified from the same cDNA pool without multiplexing. Due to its highly flexible priming option with different optimized buffers, it generates much better results
What are the things to keep in mind while choosing a facility to do this test?
About test
It is very important to choose a test that is not only reliable but also give the results quickly. RT-PCR is considered as the gold standard for detecting COVID-19. It is one of the fastest and most accurate laboratory method for detection of COVID-19.
The real time RT–PCR technique is highly sensitive and specific and can deliver a reliable diagnosis in about three to four hours. Positive test result is highly confirmatory, as dual test our done before reporting, first at the time of screening and then for confirmation.
About SpiceHealth
At SpiceHealth, People believe that quality healthcare is a human right. SpiceHealth strives to provide accessible and affordable healthcare and diagnostic services to all. SpiceHealth has emerged as the fastest growing diagnostic lab in India having conducted more than 2.3 million RT-PCR tests since its launch in Delhi in November 2020. Many testing centres process a huge number of tests each day, causing results to be delayed. As a result, various businesses or organisations have emerged to provide these services at a speedier pace. In SpiceHealth Covid-19 testing labs, for example. The results of the tests are available within 24 hours of the sample being collected
The mobile labs are located at accessible locations. The walk-in facility provides safe testing experience. Beside affordable pricing and advanced care, SpiceHealth uses high quality equipment and expert team to generate accurate results
What does RT-PCR results indicate?
Positive results indicate a current infection. If your test is positive, take all necessary precautions, contact a doctor, stay at home, and separate yourself from others.
Negative results indicate that RNA specific to SARS-COV-2 was not found. If your test is negative, you should continue to take precautions to avoid contracting COVID-19.
Inconclusive results indicate the case of clinical suspicion and a repeat Sample is advice.
A Non Diagnostic result means that the samples need to be repeated as the internal control is not detected.
Conclusion
All in all, RT-PCR tests have been the most effective way of detecting the presence of coronavirus in the human body. With just ₹399, SpiceHealth, is conducting the country’s cheapest RT-PCR tests with utmost efficacy, making it an affordable thing. It not only helps in determining the presence of coronavirus but also acts as a shield by protecting from further spread of infection via infected person. In the long fight with covid-19, RT-PCR testing facility has been a key saviour. Fast and accurate test results enable quarantining the patient whose test result came out to be positive and separating him/her from others, curbing the spread of virus. This testing facility has already proved how important it is to help us fight the deadly coronavirus. In the future too, it is not going to lose its importance and will eventually help us eradicate the covid-19 virus.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
What is Covid-19?
Corona viruses are a large group of viruses with RNA as a core genetic material .The Corona virus pandemic, also called the COVID-19 pandemic, is an ongoing global pandemic of corona virus disease 2019 which is caused by SARS-CoV-2 that is Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona virus 2. The virus was initially discovered in Wuhan, China, in December, 2019. This disease was previously known as the ‘2019 novel coronavirus.
How are covid-19 samples taken?
SpiceHealth conducts the RT-PCR test that uses nasopharyngeal swab/ or pharyngeal swabs /throat swab/nasal swab for the identification of virus particles in the patients. The antigen tests are done using nasopharyngeal swab specimens. The Covid 19 test in Delhi is carried out by trained staff with the help of well equipped kits.
What are the symptoms of Covid-19?
The SARS-COV-2 virus has been proven to have long-term impacts on an individual’s health. If a patient exhibits any of the symptoms of the corona virus, such as cold , Dry cough , fever, exhaustion, shortness of breath, Nasal congestion headaches, Loss of taste or smell ,Nasal congestion and Nausea or vomiting, Chills ,dizziness and so on, the Covid-19 test should be performed in accordance with ICMR guidelines. It is also advisable to perform Covid-19 test in case of a travel history.
WHAT ARE THE COVID-19 TEST REQUIREMENTS FOR TRAVEL PURPOSES?
For travel purposes, Countries want that visitors carry no active infection, so usually a molecular test is preferred. Currently, the outbound passengers travelling from India to a number of international destinations are being allowed to board flights only if they carry a negative RT-PCR test report as per guidelines of the destination country.
WHAT KIND OF TESTS SHOULD BE TAKEN AFTER GETTING RECOVERED FROM COVID -19?
It has been observed that the SARS-COV-2 virus can leave long-lasting, lingering side effects long after the viral load has depleted. Tests are suggested for people who have recovered from COVID-19. . However, these Tests are subjective for the conditions of the patient. Tests like CPR, COVID-19 Antibody Test, CBC test, glucose tests, neurofunction tests, chest scans, vitamin D tests are generally recommended.
HOW TO BOOK A TEST?
Booking a slot on SpiceHealth is a very easy and affordable task. Just enter your number or mail, generate an OTP, add your details and schedule your appointment. Both visiting a collection centre or Contactless Doorstep Collection services are offered.Click here to Book a test.
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