covid 19 in Dekalb Illinos

COVID-19 diagnostic testing is done to find out if you're currently infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved two types of tests for diagnosing COVID-19 — molecular and antigen:

• Molecular test. Also called a PCR test, this diagnostic test detects genetic material of the COVID-19 virus using a lab technique called polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A health care worker collects fluid from a nasal or throat swab or, less often, from saliva. Results may be available in minutes if analyzed on-site or in a few days if sent to an outside lab. Molecular tests are considered very accurate when properly performed by a health care professional, but the rapid test appears to miss some infections.
• Antigen test. This diagnostic test rapidly detects certain proteins that are part of the COVID-19 virus. Using a nasal or throat swab to get sample fluid, antigen tests can produce results in minutes. Because these tests are faster and less expensive than molecular tests are, some experts consider antigen tests more practical to use for large numbers of people. A positive antigen test result is considered very accurate, but there's an increased chance of false-negative results. So antigen tests aren't as sensitive as molecular tests are. Depending on the situation, your doctor may recommend a molecular test to confirm a negative antigen test result.

The availability of COVID-19 diagnostic testing and where to get tested may vary depending on where you live and the recommendations of your local public health officials.

Why it's done

In the U.S., your doctor may recommend a COVID-19 diagnostic test if:

• You have COVID-19 symptoms, such as fever, cough, tiredness or shortness of breath
• You've had close contact with someone who tests positive for the COVID-19 virus or is suspected of having the virus
• You're at high risk of complications if you become infected

Certain groups are considered high priority for diagnostic testing. These include people with COVID-19 signs and symptoms who:

• Work in a health care facility or as first responders
• Live or work in long-term care facilities, such as nursing homes, or other places where people are housed closely together, such as prisons or shelters
• Are being cared for in a hospital