Covid-19 RTPCR (Coronavirus SARS - CoV2) Test In Kolkata - Price & Details

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a respiratory infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It can spread from the lungs to various organs in advanced stages and may lead to hypoxia (low oxygen) and multi-organ failure. The COVID-19 RT-PCR test helps detect this infection early. It checks for the presence of viral genetic material of SARS-CoV-2 in samples from the nose and throat. The test uses a highly sensitive technique called reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) to detect even small amounts of viral DNA by multiplying it.

Your doctor may order this test if you present with flu-like symptoms or have been exposed to COVID-19 patients.

The following signs or symptoms might be indicative of COVID-19 and require testing:

• Cough or sore throat
• Headaches or body aches
• Runny nose
• Nasal congestion
• Difficulty breathing
• Loss of sense of smell or taste
• Diarrhoea or constipation

Severe symptoms include:

• Persistent chest pain
• Difficulty staying awake
• Mental confusion
• Bluish discolouration of skin or nails
• Pneumonia
• Multi-organ failure

The following individuals should consider getting this test done:

• Anyone with respiratory symptoms.
• Anyone who came in close contact with COVID-19 positive patients.
• Anyone travelling to or from higher-prevalence areas.
• Healthcare workers treating COVID-19 patients.

The RT-PCR test is a qualitative test that detects viral genetic material in a patient's sample to help diagnose COVID-19. It is a highly sensitive and specific test approved globally for COVID-19.

What to Expect Before the Test?

• Fasting is usually not required before the test.
• You can eat or drink normally before the test.
• Avoid using nasal sprays and mouth rinses before the test.
• Inform your doctor about your current medicines, vaccination history, and exposure history before the test.

What to Expect During the Test?

The sample is collected from the nose and throat following a quick test procedure explained below:

• A nasal swab is inserted into the nose and gently rolled to collect the sample. You may feel a mild tickling sensation.
• An oropharyngeal swab is used to collect a throat sample. You may feel a brief gag reflex that goes away quickly.
• Both samples are transferred to a viral transport medium (VTM) tube, sealed, and labelled.

What to Expect After the Test?

• The test procedure is generally safe and painless.
• The sealed and labelled tube is sent to the lab for testing.
• Continue taking prescribed medications or safety precautions until you receive the report.

Note: If you notice any nosebleeds or shooting pain in the nose or throat after the test, consult your healthcare provider immediately.

The results of the COVID-19 RT-PCR test are interpreted based on the detection of SARS-CoV-2 genetic material as follows:

Note: The normal values and reference ranges of the test may vary from lab to lab. Please refer to the ranges mentioned in the report and consult an expert to understand your test results better.

• The test cannot evaluate COVID-19 symptoms.
• The test does not provide any information about vaccination status.
• Contamination can lead to false results and may require repeat testing.

You can book Covid-19 RTPCR (Coronavirus SARS - CoV2) Test in Kolkata through PharmEasy with convenient home sample collection across several localities, including :

• Salt Lake
• New Town
• Rajarhat
• Dum Dum
• Lake Town
• Baguiati
• Park Street
• Ballygunge
• Bhowanipore
• Alipore
• Behala
• Tollygunge
• Jadavpur
• Garia
• Kalighat
• Kasba
• Kankurgachi
• Ruby
• Sealdah
• Shyambazar

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