Short Wave What Coronavirus Test Results Do — And Don't — Mean
Oct 8, 2020
Rob Stein, NPR's health and science reporter, dives into the complexities of coronavirus testing. He clarifies the differences between antigen and PCR tests, explaining when each is most accurate. Stein emphasizes the limitations of test results and why a negative test doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. He critiques the handling of testing, especially in high-profile situations, and stresses the importance of maintaining safety measures, highlighting the need for a comprehensive public health approach.
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Test Types and Trade-offs
- PCR tests detect viral genetic material and are highly accurate but complex, requiring specialized labs and equipment.
- Antigen tests detect viral proteins, offering faster, cheaper results but with potential reliability issues.
Test Timing and Accuracy
- Timing is crucial for accurate testing, as it takes time for the virus to replicate and become detectable.
- False negatives are highly probable immediately after exposure, decreasing over several days.
McEnany's Case
- Studies show PCR tests are most accurate around eight days post-exposure.
- Kayleigh McEnany's case exemplifies testing negative initially, then positive, highlighting this lag.