Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and rapid (antigen) tests for COVID-19 both involve taking a swab. Results for a PCR test take longer, as it needs to go to a laboratory. It is more costly but tends to ...

A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test detects genetic material from a pathogen or abnormal cell sample. Ways of collecting samples include a nasal swab, a saliva swab, or taking a sample of blood.

With Omicron surging in the United States, many people are taking COVID-19 tests to see whether they test positive. Most people will take either a rapid antigen or PCR test. Though the PCR test is ...

With numerous types of COVID-19 tests available, in addition to increased demand and long wait times, many people are wondering which test they should undergo, or which is the most accurate. When ...

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. Matt Binnicker is the CSO for Mayo Collaborative Services. Dr. Matt Binnicker, an expert in the diagnosis of infectious diseases, ...

Molecular tests are far superior to rapid antigen tests—and now you can get them for home use. Last week, I was about to go on a date, and because I'm severely immunocompromised, we agreed he would ...

COLUMBUS, Ohio — You've heard a lot of talk about genomic sequencing: It's the process used in labs to detect variants of COVID-19 from PCR test samples. Some social media users falsely claim it's ...