Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and rapid (antigen) tests for COVID-19 both involve taking a swab. Results for a PCR test take longer, as it needs to go to a laboratory. It is more costly but tends to ...
NEW YORK -- Millions of Americans have purchased rapid COVID-19 tests online or at local stores and signed up to receive test kits through a free government program. Unlike conventional, lab-processed ...
At-home COVID-19 tests have become commonplace for many households, but knowing when exactly to take a rapid test — or when to throw old ones out — isn't always straightforward. Here's what health ...
The pandemic isn’t over. Although it's no longer considered a national and public health emergency, we're currently seeing a surge in cases and the spread of two new variants—EG.5 (Eris) and BA.2.86 ( ...
This holiday season, we are all itching for a little bit of normalcy. For many, this means spending time with family and friends, and dropping the masks to drink eggnog. But even if you are fully ...
A false positive result is possible with a rapid COVID-19 test. It happens when a person does not have COVID-19 but still tests positive for the disease. People can use a rapid COVID-19 test at home ...
Michael Mina, MD, PhD, is an epidemiologist, immunologist, and physician. He routinely advises federal and international governments on public health programs. He was previously a professor at the ...