Travelling should be safe and hassle-free. Since the outbreak of covid-19, the safety measures have risen, leading to more precautions needed. Covid can spread from person to person; thus, you want to make sure you are not exposed to any virus if you are travelling.
Getting a pcr test for travel and showing the results to the physician before you begin your journey ensures the safety of you and your fellow travellers. There are specific measures taken before you do your PCR test, discussed below in detail.
What is a PCR Test, and How is a COVID-19 PCR Test Done?
PCR expands to polymerase chain reaction test, which detects genetic material from a specific virus. The test identifies the presence of a specific virus if you have it when the test is done.
As the COVID-19 outbreak occurred, the detection of this virus in individuals was done through a PCR test. It is a standard gold test for detecting it and was authorised for use in February 2020. It’s accurate and reliable for testing.
What are PCR tests Used For?
PCR tests are done for the following:
- diagnosis of certain infectious diseases
- identification of a genetic change that can lead to disease
- finding any small amount of cancer cells that might get missed in another kind of tests
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Steps for a PCR test for travel
To make sure you are not carrying any virus with you while travelling, you must show a PCR test report taken within 72 hours. As COVID-19 is the most contagious virus now, the pcr test for travel is necessary. The following steps are followed for undergoing a COVID 19 PCR test:
- Collection of Sample: A healthcare provider collects a sample through a swab. The swab has a soft tip on a flexible and long stick that goes into your nose. It collects the respiratory material found in your nose. After sample collection, the swab is sealed and sent to the lab.
- Extraction: After the sample is received, the lab works on extracting the genetic material.
- PCR: The next step is using special chemicals to detect the presence of the virus. A PCR machine interprets the result as positive or negative.
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Is There Any Risk to a PCR Test?
There is no such risk associated with a PCR test. You may encounter slight pain or bruise on the spot where the needle is put. These symptoms go very quickly after the test. During a nasal swab test, you might feel ticklish on your throat or feel like coughing.
A nasopharyngeal swab is uncomfortable and causes coughing or gagging, but all these effects are temporary. The pain is like a bit of a sting in a blood test sample, and it goes out quickly. None of them has any risks or long-lasting pain.
Why is the PCR test for Travel so Valuable?
PCR tests can detect the presence of a virus RNA which indicates if the person is infected with a virus. This test is valuable in identifying the virus quickly before the appearance of symptoms. It is a helpful and suitable tool for a doctor as it detects the smallest of things on time, which helps take precautions.
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Final Word
PCR tests are the most reliable source for virus detection, and it helps in the quick initiation of preventive measures. It helps you be safe and know any fault on time, especially when exposed to other people while travelling.
PCR tests have a crucial role in preventing the spreading of diseases and indicating the further action required.
