Two types of COVID-19 tests, the rapid antigen test and the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, are available in the United States. The PCR typically relies on lab testing and is still considered ...

Researchers often call the polymerase chain reaction test – known as the PCR test – "the gold standard" for detecting the COVID-19 virus. The test is considered highly reliable and effective, and it ...

The government is offering another round of free at-home COVID tests to Americans in time for the holiday season. As flu and RSV season kick into full swing, precautions meant to keep families healthy ...

RSV is short for respiratory syncytial virus. It’s a virus that can cause respiratory infections in your lungs, nose, and throat. It’s best to test for RSV soon after your symptoms start. That’s ...

Approximately 11 million American households have ordered their new round of free COVID-19 test kits, the White House says, over the first week since the Biden administration reopened requests. The ...

A study led by Osaka University recently found that the sensitivity of rapid antigen tests (RATs) for the Omicron variant of COVID-19 when compared with polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests was 0.63 ...

When the emergency ends, private insurers will no longer be required to cover COVID-19 testing and treatment with no cost-sharing. Most will still cover the tests but may impose cost-sharing, ...

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 ...