We all are aware of how the COVID-19 pandemic has upended the lives of billions of people and ravaged economies the world over. This inestimable damage can be ascribed to the elusive nature of the disease. COVID-19 produces symptoms that run the gamut—many of which tend to overlap with those of other respiratory infections—putting many of the body systems under siege at once.
At EMC Express Care in Fort Worth, Texas, we stand with public health agencies and the people in our community in the fight against COVID-19. Apart from providing high-quality urgent care, we offer three major COVID-19 testing options to meet the individual needs of our patients.
Among other significant benefits, COVID-19 tests help people ascertain whether their symptoms are that of the disease, take the necessary measures to help prevent the spread of infection, and receive prompt treatment to avoid life-threatening complications.
Let’s take a look at each of the types of COVID-19 testing methods and see which one may be right for you.
In-House Rapid Nasal Molecular Testing (Swab Test)
At EMC Express Care, we recommend rapid in-house nasal molecular testing if you are symptomatic or had recent exposure to the virus.
To carry out the procedure, we will obtain a sample of your sputum— the thick mucus that you expel through coughing, sneezing, or spitting. We will insert a 6-inch-long swab (like a long Q-tip) into your nasal cavity to reach deep inside your nose and throat, and rotate it several times for 15 seconds. Swabbing may be repeated on the other side of your nose to make sure enough sample is collected. We will then insert the swab into a container and send it for analysis.
You can receive the results for this type of test within the same day.
Send-Out Nasal PCR Testing
We also offer nasal polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests, which are highly effective at detecting both current and past infections. The test can pick up the genetic material of the virus and even its remnants in your system after the infection.
To carry out the procedure, we will extract a sample from your nose or throat and send it to the lab for analysis.
Results of this exam may take three to five business days.
Rapid COVID-19 Antibody Test
Also called a serology test, an antibody test determines whether you contracted COVID-19 in the past; it screens for antibodies that you may have developed in response to the infection. However, an antibody test is not used for diagnosing a current infection and may not show accurate results when conducted early in the course of infection.
To conduct an antibody test for COVID-19, we will draw a sample of your blood, usually by a finger prick. We will then have the sample analyzed to detect the presence of antibodies in your system.
Results of this test may be ready within the same day.
Accurate, Quick COVID-19 Testing in Fort Worth, TX
If you suspect that you may have COVID-19 or you had recent exposure to the virus, reach out to us at EMC Express Care, so we can guide you through the whole testing procedure. You may call us at 817-508-8800 for more information or to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you stay on top of your health all the time!
