A PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test is a way to look for genetic material (DNA or RNA). After taking a body fluid sample (like blood) or a swab from a body site (like deep in your nose), scientists use …

Jan 29, 2024 · In this article, we explore what PCR tests are in more detail, including how they work and how doctors interpret the results.

Mar 10, 2025 · Visit a community-based testing location, such as a pharmacy or health center near you. These locations may offer NAAT, including PCR, or antigen tests, and provide low- or no-cost testing.

To do a PCR test: A health care professional will take a sample of blood, saliva, mucus, or tissue. The sample will contain your own DNA and possibly the DNA of a pathogen or cancer cell. The sample, …

Oct 21, 2024 · Until last year, you needed to get a PCR from a testing center, but home NAAT tests have evolved and there are now four rapid, at-home molecular COVID tests, meaning you test and …

Jul 20, 2022 · While the number of COVID-19 cases have gone down, people are still using at-home COVID tests to determine if they have the virus. Learn how to correctly take an at-home test, where …

Jan 18, 2022 · COVID-19 PCR tests use primers that match a segment of the virus’s genetic material. This allows many copies of that material to be made, which can be used to detect whether or not the …

Nov 3, 2025 · People are increasingly opting for at-home rapid COVID tests because of their convenience and quick turnaround time. You can now even order free testing kits from the …

Jul 18, 2024 · Find out how to test to learn if you're infected with the virus that causes COVID-19.

Jan 20, 2025 · How and when should you use an at-home COVID-19 test? At-home COVID-19 tests, also known as rapid antigen tests, are convenient. But be careful. The test results can be wrong. …