COVID-19 Coronavirus Testing
COVID-19 is a global pandemic illness caused by ‘Coronavirus’ (SARS-CoV2). The main symptoms are fever and a persistent cough. We offer a range of tests to detect whether you current have or have previously had COVID-19.
If you feel you need medical advice or attention, visit the NHS Coronavirus page for guidance.
Choosing the correct test
| PCR Test COVID-19 | COVID-19 Antibody Test | Pre-Departure Lateral Flow Test | Lateral Flow Test | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| What does it do? | Detect current COVID-19 infection by detecting COVID-19 viral genetic material | Detect past infection / exposure by detecting antibodies to COVID-19 made by your body | Detect current COVID-19 infection through detection of protein antigen SARS-Cov-2 from nasal swab specimens | Detect current COVID-19 infection through detection of protein antigen SARS-Cov-2 from nasal swab specimens |
| When should you do the test? | While having symptoms Within 3-5 days of possible exposure | At least 14-21 days from symptoms / exposure | For use as a pre-departure test complete within 2 days before entering the UK. For general usage, swab while having symptoms or within 3-5 days of possible exposure | Use the test routinely to detect if you have a COVID-19 infection before mixing with others. If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or a headcold, it's recommended that you take a PCR test which has greater accuracy |
| What does it look for? | Current COVID-19 virus infection | Previous COVID-19 infection | Current COVID-19 virus infection | Current COVID-19 virus infection |
| What illness phase does it detect? | The start and during illness | After the illness usually following recovery / 2 weeks | The start and during illness | The start and during illness |
| What does a positive test mean? | You currently have active COVID-19 infection | You have previously had COVID-19 infection | You currently have active COVID-19 infection | You currently have active COVID-19 infection |
| How quickly will I get the results? | 2-3 days | 2-3 days | Within 15 minutes | Within 15 minutes |
| Cost | £110.00 | £50.00 | £19.00 | £ |
