Antigen Test

An antigen test uses a nasal or throat swab to detect the presence of certain proteins (antigens) on a virus's surface. It is widely used to detect diseases such as COVID-19 and influenza. These tests identify viral fragments rather than genetic material (as PCR testing do).

Key Advantages of Antigen Tests:

Speed: Results are usually available in 15-30 minutes, making it perfect for quick screening.

Simplicity: These tests are often easier to give, as they may often be performed at home or in point-of-care settings without the requirement of specialised laboratory equipment.

Cost-effective: Antigen tests are usually less expensive than molecular tests (such as PCR), making them more suitable for large-scale testing.

Early detection: They can identify active