Coronavirus Blood Tests
There are two tests for the Coronavirus Covid 19..
Antigen Test
Antibody Test
There are two tests for the Coronavirus Covid 19, knowing the difference can help. Source; NHS
Antigen Test
If you have symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19), you can ask your GP/NHS for a test to check if you have the virus. This is called an antigen test.
You can ask for a test :
- for yourself, if you have coronavirus symptoms now (a high temperature, a new, continuous cough, or a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste)
- for someone you live with, if they have coronavirus symptoms
Please help the NHS and only ask for a test if you or someone you live with has symptoms now.
When to ask for a test
You need to have the test in the first 5 days of having symptoms.
It’s best to ask for the test in the first 3 days, as it may take a day or two to arrange.
What the test involves
The test usually involves taking a swab of the inside of your nose and the back of your throat, using a long cotton bud.
You can do the swab yourself or someone can do it for you.
Will I get a test?
There is very high demand for tests at the moment.
People in hospital and essential workers, including NHS and social care staff, are getting priority.
Even if you are successful in requesting a test, we cannot guarantee you will get one. It depends on how many tests are available each day in different parts of the country.
How do I ask for a test?
You can ask for a test online.
We’ll ask you:
- how you want to get the test – you may be able to choose between driving to a regional testing site or getting a home test kit
- for details such as your name, mobile phone number and address
Antibody Test
There is another type of test (antibody test) that checks if you’ve already had the virus. This test is not available yet.
This is not available on the NHS but can be purchased.
