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 ...

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 ...

Two types of COVID-19 tests, the rapid antigen test and the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, are available in the United States. The PCR typically relies on lab testing and is still considered ...

Researchers often call the polymerase chain reaction test – known as the PCR test – "the gold standard" for detecting the COVID-19 virus. The test is considered highly reliable and effective, and it ...

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, ...

A 20-second Covid test developed in Israel delivers results that are almost as good as the gold-standard PCR test – but at a fraction of the cost. Like any over-the-counter antigen test, it uses a ...

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.

Last week, I was about to go on a date, and because I'm severely immunocompromised, we agreed he would take a COVID test ...