Virus Tests

Viral diagnostic tests identify active viral infections. Molecular tests detect genetic material and antigen tests detect specific surface proteins on the virus. Molecular tests rely on Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) to amplify the genetic material of the virus. This chemical process releases fluorescence that is detected with a photosensor machine. Antigen tests are designed for at-home or rapid testing without requiring the use of electronic components.  

While PCR is traditionally a longer and more expensive diagnostic process, new rapid PCR technology allows results to be available as quickly as antigen tests with much higher accuracy.