Reliable COVID-19 Testing in Southbury, CT

Do you know when to get tested for COVID-19? You might want to find out if you are infected with the novel coronavirus if you have telltale symptoms, such as a low-grade fever or persistent cough. And even if you feel fine, COVID-19 testing might be a good idea if you were recently exposed to an infected person because the virus does not always produce noticeable symptoms. Either way, once you have your test results, you can make sure that you are taking all necessary precautions to protect yourself and others.

PhysicianOne Urgent Care offers convenient COVID-19 testing and treatment services in Southbury, Connecticut. After evaluating your symptoms and circumstances, we can suggest the most appropriate type of COVID-19 test for you. We offer:

Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) COVID-19 Testing

Currently considered the gold standard in COVID-19 testing, the PCR test involves an anterior nasal swab to collect a small secretion sample. The sample is then sent to a lab, where it is tested for evidence of an active infection. The results are typically returned within 24-48 hours. This type of COVID-19 testing is appropriate for patients with or without symptoms. Additionally, when proof of a negative COVID-19 test is required, most states, employers, and schools accept the results of a PCR test.

Rapid COVID-19 Antigen Testing

Similar to the PCR test, the rapid antigen test involves a nasal swab. However, the sample is immediately processed in our on-site lab, and the results are available in approximately 15 minutes. Of the two types of COVID-19 testing, the rapid antigen test provides the quickest results; however, it is slightly less accurate than the PCR test. According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), a positive result is generally reliable, but false negatives are common. Therefore, if the rapid antigen test produces a negative result, we usually recommend following up with a PCR test.

In addition to the PCR test and the rapid antigen test, which can detect an active COVID-19 infection, PhysicianOne Urgent Care is pleased to offer the COVID-19 antibody test. This test checks a blood sample for evidence of a past infection—namely, COVID-19 antibodies—which may provide some level of protection against reinfection.

If you have questions or are interested in COVID-19 testing, contact or visit PhysicianOne Urgent Care in Southbury today.