Coronavirus (COVID-19) Testing- All you Need to Know

In this article, we will try to collate the relevant information regarding the testing procedure for Coronavirus which one has to undergo.

It is important to know that these tests are required only when there are symptoms of infection or there has been close contact with people who have travelled to endemic regions with a high rate of infection.

The Indian government has made certain testing sites in each state where the testing for confirmation of the infection takes place. These tests are conducted in specialized certified labs designated by the government.

What should you do?

In case of suspicion of being infected one should wear a face mask preferably N95 or a 3 ply surgical mask and go to the designated testing site. One should try not to touch face or eyes and also avoid touching any surface.

What happens prior to Testing?

• You will be asked to wait in a chamber.
• A qualified medical will attend you and inquire regarding your symptoms.
• Your temperature will be recorded.
• Your travel history, contact history and family history will be taken.

What Happens During Testing?

A qualified medical professional will attend you and will bring a kit for collecting the sample. One of the following samples may be acquired from you depending on the local protocol.

• A Nasal/ Throat Swab: The health care provider will take a special cotton swab and take the sample from your nose or throat.
• A Nasal Aspirate: Small amount of saline solution will be injected in the nose and then removed with gentle suction.
• A Tracheal Aspirate: A thin tube called a bronchoscope goes into your lungs, where a sample is collected.
• A Sputum Test: Sputum is a type of mucus from lungs which is taken by a cotton swab for testing.
• A Blood Test: Blood sample from your veins is taken in a sterile vial and sent for testing in a lab.

What Happens Next?

Depending on the severity of symptoms and your history you might be taken to an isolation ward where you might be kept under observation until the results come or you might be asked to go home and observe self-isolation till the results come.

What If the Test Comes Positive?

Do not worry. In case the tests come out positive you will be taken to an isolation ward and will be provided with the supportive care and medicines. It is important to remember that most cases of coronavirus infection have recovered without any health issues.

Coronavirus Testing Sites in India

Currently, there are 52 sites in India for Covid-19 testing. See below state wise list:

If you are a corporate HR or a business owner and looking toward health screening of your entire workforce, go through our corporate health check plans specifically catered to all sort of needs and budgets.

Related Articles:

• Coronavirus – Symptoms, Myths and Guidelines to Reduce Health Risk
• How to Protect yourself and others from Covid-19

*Note: The information contained in this article is validated by the World Health Organization (W.H.O)