| Molecular Test | Antigen Test | Antibody Test | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Also known as.. | Diagnostic test, viral test, molecular test, Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT), RT-PCR test, LAMP test | Rapid diagnostic test (Some molecular tests are also rapid tests) | Serological test, serology, blood test, serology test |
| What is it? | A diagnostic test that can detect active infection. Currently, the preferred COVID-19 testing method. | A diagnostic test that can detect active infection. | A test that detects antibodies the immune system created in response to past infection |
| What kind of sample is taken? | Nasal or throat swab (most tests) Saliva (a few tests) | Nasal or throat swab | Finger stick or blood draw |
| What do the test results mean? | POSITIVE: Most likely, you DO have an active COVID-19 infection and can give the virus to others.
NEGATIVE: Most likely you DO NOT currently have an active COVID-19 infection. |
POSITIVE: Most likely, you DO have an active COVID-19 infection and can give the virus to others.
NEGATIVE: You either DO NOT currently have an active COVID-19 infection or you DO have COVID-19 but were tested early or late into the virus’ progression. |
POSITIVE: You were potentially previously infected with COVID-19.
NEGATIVE: You were potentially never previously infected with COVID-19, or have not yet developed antibodies. |
| Next steps | POSITIVE: Stay home and follow CDC guidance on steps to take to avoid spreading your illness to others.
NEGATIVE: If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or recently been exposed to someone with COVID-19, stay home and continue to follow CDC guidance to avoid spreading potential illness to others. |
POSITIVE: Stay home and follow CDC guidance on steps to take to avoid spreading your illness to others.
NEGATIVE: If you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or recently been exposed to someone with COVID-19, stay home and continue to follow CDC guidance to avoid spreading potential illness to others. A molecular test is recommended. |
POSITIVE: You may be protected from reinfection or have some degree of temporary immunity. Currently, CDC and CSTE places this at 3 months.
NEGATIVE: You are still susceptible to COVID-19. Please take steps to protect yourself and others. |
*The cycle threshold for these tests is determined by the manufacturers of the FDA approved testing platforms, not JCDHE or KDHE.
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