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CertifiedLabsWhat is COVID RT-PCR Test?
The COVID-19 RT-PCR test is a molecular diagnostic procedure that identifies SARS-CoV-2, the virus behind COVID-19. By detecting viral RNA in a sample taken from the nasal or throat region, it helps determine whether a person has an active infection.
SARS-CoV-2, a single-stranded RNA virus from the Beta coronavirus family, spreads via respiratory droplets, contaminated surfaces, and aerosol transmission in enclosed spaces. Once inside the body, it binds to receptors in various organs, including the heart and lungs, leading to infection. Symptoms can range from mild (fever, cough, tiredness) to severe (pneumonia, breathing difficulties, multi-organ complications), with higher risks for elderly individuals and those with pre-existing conditions.
The test involves collecting a sample from the nose or throat and analysing it in a laboratory for viral RNA. A positive result confirms an ongoing infection, whereas a negative result means the virus was not detected at the time of testing.
For residents of Mumbai, home-based COVID-19 RT-PCR testing provides a convenient solution, allowing for efficient sample collection and timely result delivery.
COVID -19 RT PCR Test Parameters
The COVID-19 RT-PCR test measures a single parameter: the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which leads to COVID-19 infection.
By detecting small portions of the virus’s RNA in a nasal or throat swab, this test confirms an active infection. Testing relies on polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technology, which amplifies the virus’s genetic material for precise identification.
The accuracy of the test depends on multiple factors, including the timing after exposure and the quality of the sample collection. While RT-PCR testing is known for its high reliability, incorrect handling of samples can lead to false results.
For hospitalised COVID-19 patients, further tests may be conducted to monitor their health. Blood tests such as a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) and Complete Blood Count (CBC) help assess overall well-being, while inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP), D-dimer, and ferritin levels help determine the severity of inflammation and risk of blood clotting. Chest X-rays and CT scans may be used to detect lung complications like pneumonia in critical cases, though they are not always effective in identifying early infection.
COVID Test Preparation
Here’s how you can get ready for a COVID-19 RT-PCR test at home:
Prerequisites : No special measures, such as fasting, are required before taking the test.
Best Time to Get Tested: The test can be carried out at any hour of the day.
Who Should Get a COVID RTPCR Test?: Anyone displaying symptoms like fever, cough, or shortness of breath, individuals who have had close contact with confirmed cases, and travellers returning from infection-prone regions should take the test for timely detection and virus control.
Cautions Before Taking a COVID RTPCR Test: There are no particular precautions to follow before undergoing the test.
Why Take the COVID -19 RT PCR Test?
The test is significant for individuals affected with COVID-19 or at risk of it. Testing helps in the following cases:
If You Have Symptoms: Fever, cough, shortness of breath, extreme tiredness, sore throat, headache, muscle pain, nausea, or diarrhoea.
If You Are in a High-Risk Group:
Living or working in densely populated areas like dormitories or camps.
Healthcare workers working in medical settings and exposed to COVID-19 patients.
Recently travelled from a region experiencing widespread COVID-19 infections.
If You Have a Severe Condition:
Hospitalised due to a severe lung infection.
Having severe symptoms like high fever (above 38°C) with significant breathing difficulties.
RT-PCR testing aids in early identification, limits virus transmission, and ensures prompt medical attention.
FAQs on COVID -19 RT PCR Test in Mumbai
The cost of a COVID RTPCR test in Mumbai is ₹750. This includes efficient home sample collection within 60 minutes after booking. Orange Health Labs ensures precise test results are available within 57 hours.
Yes, Orange Health Labs provides home sample collection for the COVID RTPCR test. A trained eMedic will visit within 60 minutes of booking confirmation to collect your sample safely.
The test is used to detect SARS-CoV-2 by analysing genetic material from a nasal or throat swab, confirming COVID-19 infections in symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals.
No fasting is needed before taking this test.
The COVID RTPCR test is designed to detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA in respiratory tract samples.
COVID RTPCR test results rely on Ct values, which indicate viral quantity. If the Ct value is under 40, the test is positive. Lower Ct values correlate with higher viral loads, while higher Ct values suggest minimal virus presence.
Expect to receive your COVID RTPCR test report within 57 hours from the time of sample collection.
Your requirement for a COVID RTPCR test depends on medical advice, symptoms, recent exposure, and health conditions.
The COVID RTPCR test is available for at-home testing in several locations of Mumbai including but not limited to Colaba, Nariman Point, Marine Drive, Malabar Hill, Churchgate, Worli, Dadar, Parel, Byculla, Bandra, Andheri, Juhu, Ghatkopar, Powai, Chembur, Vashi, Belapur, Santacruz, Khar, Versova, Lokhandwala, Goregaon, Borivali, Kandivali, Mulund, Bhandup, Kurla.
Payment & Refund Policy
- We do not accept cash payments
- All modes of online payment are accepted
- Refunds will be credited back to the source of payment within 5-7 working days of order cancellation.
References
- COVID-19 Testing. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/covid19testing.html
- Detection of 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) by real-time RT-PCR. Eurosurveillance. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6988269/#sec22