Rapid PCR Test

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cartoon person getting a PCR COVID test

Same Day PCR Covid Test in Orange County

At Orange County COVID Clinic, you can receive rapid RT-PCR test results on the same day, with a turnaround time of 1-4 hours. These results can be delivered to you via email or text message, providing a fast and convenient option for those who need PCR results sooner than the standard 24-48 hours.

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Two types of COVID tests are available, a molecular test and an antigen test. Both play vital roles in the fight against COVID-19. However, one test may be more suited for a particular situation than the other. 

A PCR test, for example, is a test that offers highly accurate and fast results. When accuracy is of the essence, the PCR test gives dependable results fast. PCR tests are crucial in diagnosing COVID-19. These tests have been shown to be reliable for detecting SARS-COV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

What is a PCR Test?

A PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test is a quick and accurate diagnostic molecular test that detects the early signs of diseases or genetic changes. Through PCR tests, health professionals can identify the DNA or RNA of an infectious organism or unusual cells in a sample. DNA and RNA are genetic material that contains information about an organism, like a virus. Its ability to confirm infection in its earliest stages sets a PCR test apart from other tests. 

Nasal swabs are used to collect genetic material to test for the presence of the COVID-19 virus. PCR tests are highly effective at COVID-19 diagnostic testing due to their ability to detect genetic material.

While other tests may fail at early disease detection because there are not enough bacteria, viruses, or antibodies at the start of an infection, a PCR test excels at this task. Other tests require enough time for the body to establish a strong antibody response. Antibodies are proteins the immune system creates to fight foreign microorganisms that may cause illness. Typically, it takes time for the body to develop an immune response strong enough to appear on a diagnostic test. 

person about to get a PCR COVID test

Unlike many other tests, however, PCR tests can find evidence of antibodies or pathogens at the start of an illness. This is because PCR tests only need a small amount of genetic material in a sample. This small amount is copied multiple times using a process called amplification. Through amplification, a PCR test makes it easier to identify the presence of a specific disease. 

PCR COVID test sample

Other names used for PCR tests include: 

  • Polymerase chain reaction test
  • Reverse transcription PCR
  • real-time PCR
  • qPCR
  • quantitative PCR
  • rtPCR

The COVID-19 PCR test checks for the presence of the virus that causes COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2. A PCR test spots SARS-CoV-2 if a person has the virus at the time of the test.

Benefits of a PCR Test

Most people would like to know if they are sick at the start of an illness so they know what to expect. A PCR test makes this possible. These tests are better at detecting the virus early on compared to rapid tests. People may receive a negative antigen test result early on in their symptoms, but these could be false negative results due to the limitations of antigen testing. 

 PCR tests also offer a variety of other benefits in the following ways: 

Helps with Treatment Decisions

Rather than waiting for definite symptoms to develop, patients and healthcare providers can make treatment decisions before signs and symptoms even occur. In addition, a PCR test allows individuals to plan their treatment accordingly and avoid unnecessary treatment if they are negative.

Targets Therapy

Because PCR tests provide early results, individuals and their healthcare providers can hone in on the most valuable therapies at the start of an illness. By doing so, targeting therapy can shorten the duration of an illness and prevent complications. 

There are three primary COVID-19 antiviral therapies. However, these three treatments must begin within five to seven days from the start of symptoms. Because PCR tests can detect an infection in its early stages, antiviral treatments can be initiated immediately in individuals needing them the most. 

Avoid Unnecessary Antibiotics

Keeping antibiotic use to a minimum is essential to prevent antibiotic-resistant bacteria. And in most cases, antibiotics are ineffective against a viral infection like COVID-19. A PCR test can detect a viral infection and prevent the unnecessary use of antibiotics. 

Lowers Overall Health Costs

While the number of severe COVID-19 cases has fallen since the pandemic's start, COVID symptoms can still impact healthcare costs. Early detection through PCR tests can reduce an individual's medical bills through early treatment and care, preventing severe health problems. 

Who Should Get a COVID-19 PCR Test?

Anyone who has the following symptoms should get tested for COVID-19: 

  • Fever
  • Runny Nose
  • Congestion
  • Sore Throat
  • Chills
  • Body Aches
  • Headache
  • Diarrhea
  • Loss of Smell or Taste
  • Shortness of Breath
  • Vomiting
  • Nausea
  • Cough

Most people would like to know if they are sick at the start of an illness so they know what to expect. A PCR test makes this possible. These tests are better at detecting the virus early on compared to rapid tests. People may receive a negative antigen test result early on in their symptoms, but these could be false negative results due to the limitations of antigen testing. 

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person holding PCR COVID test

Preparation for a PCR Test

Smoking, vaping, eating, or drinking is NOT RECOMMENDED 1 hour before a PCR test. Bring a form of identification and an appointment confirmation to facilitate the processing of the test. Face coverings are required when showing up for a COVID-19 PCR test. 

Sample Collection

A health professional uses a swab to collect a sample for a COVID-19 PCR test. This swab is gently inserted into the nostrils to obtain respiratory material. After the collection, the swab is placed into a tube for laboratory processing. 

How Long Until PCR Test Results?

PCR tests for COVID-19 typically take about 24-48 hours to process a result. To avoid delays, providing accurate identification and information ensures the timely delivery of results. 

What Do COVID-19 PCR Test Results Mean? 

A positive COVID-19 PCR test result means the person taking the test is most likely infected with the COVID-19 virus, SARS-CoV-2. Many people can be infected with SARS-CoV-2 and be asymptomatic (no symptoms). Being infected with SARS-CoV-2 does not indicate a COVID-19 infection.

To have a COVID-19 infection, a person must be infected with SARS-CoV-2 and show COVID symptoms. A positive test should be reviewed with a healthcare provider. People who test positive on a COVID test should remain home and separate themselves from others. 

On the other hand, a negative test result means that the person taking the test was most likely not infected with the COVID-19 virus, SARS-CoV-2, at the time of the test. There is still a small chance that the person has the virus, but at levels that are not detectable, even on a PCR test. It’s important to note that a negative test does not mean a person can’t get COVID in the future. 

Same-Day PCR COVID Test Orange County

Orange County COVID clinic offers COVID testing options to fit your needs. We understand how frustrating COVID testing can be, so we make the process easy and painless. You can receive your test results on the same day or within 48 hours. 

Book an appointment with us today for your convenient Orange County PCR COVID test.

The swab is not so far in the nose. Being able to have my son, Caden, get swabbed in a way that’s a lot more comfortable for an 8 year-old. It’s not going to make him tear up like he has in the past. It’s only one hour, and it’s been really nice to just wait in the comfort of your car with the air conditioning on and snacks, instead of having to wait in a room and worrying about maybe passing something or getting something from someone else as well. It’s been nice.
Ericka Waters
Ericka Waters
The OC Covid Clinic is my go-to when I need COVID testing. I most recently had to get tested to take my daughter to Disneyland. The test was simple and painless for both of us. And with such fast results, we could get there soon after the park opened. The team here really has the entire testing process down to a science.
Maria Hernandez
Maria Hernandez
When I first needed COVID testing last year, I wasn’t a fan of the nasal swabs. They went deep in the nose and were more uncomfortable than I liked. I was honestly shocked with my most recent test. It was much more comfortable than before. I also liked getting my results back so quickly since it used to take weeks before I’d hear back from other labs and testing sites.
Kenny Yalto
Kenny Yalto
I’m visiting my elderly mother up in the Bay Area this weekend, and I needed to get tested as close to when I left as I could to make sure my results were the most updated and accurate. With the PCR test, I was able to come in on my way out of town and get my results back in less than an hour! The test itself was also quick and smooth, which I appreciated.
Jennifer Durran
Jennifer Durran
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The PCR COVID test identifies the virus at the molecular level through its genetic material, specifically the RNA of SARS-CoV-2. With an anterior nares nasal swab sample, we can diagnose current COVID infections. The test does not detect previous infections.
PCR tests are the Gold Standard of COVID-19 testing. They provide the most accurate COVID test results, with up to 99% accuracy even without present symptoms. It’s for this reason that doctors may recommend a PCR test after Antigen testing to confirm a previous negative Antigen test result. While an on-site rapid PCR test isn’t quite as accurate as ones sent to our lab, it can provide results in under an hour. Rapid results are often needed for airports, theme parks, stadiums, and other popular and crowded locations.

The RT-PCR test is different from the antibody test in several ways. First, PCR testing looks for active COVID infections via the virus’s genetics. Antibody tests help identify previous infections through locating SARS-CoV-2 antibodies produced by the immune system. Antibody tests cannot diagnose COVID-19 like PCR tests can. Antibodies are typically found in the body after two weeks of the final vaccine dose. Second, PCR testing takes a specimen through a lower nasal swab, while Antibody tests take a blood sample with a quick and easy finger prick.

PCR testing is 99% accurate with both COVID-19 and the Delta variant. (The test does not specify the COVID strain, only detecting the virus itself.) False negatives are highly unlikely, which is why molecular tests are considered the best test. However, all diagnostic tests have a risk of producing a false result, particularly when testing for variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Along with the PCR COVID test, our facility also performs Rapid Antigen and Antibody testing. Rapid Antigen tests also identify current infection through a simple and comfortable nasal swab. Antibody tests instead detect SARS-CoV-2 antibodies that develop from vaccination or previous infection. Same-day COVID testing results are available for all three tests.

Rapid diagnostic tests identify and diagnose COVID-19 quickly by using an upper respiratory sample to detect the virus. These tests include both RT-PCR and Antigen testing. Patients can receive their test results in less than an hour, within the same day, or by the next day. Depending on the specific test, nasal swab samples are either processed on site at our testing facility or sent to a laboratory. Rapid same-day PCR testing must be scheduled before 10:30 for High-Complex Lab to receive and process the specimens and return the results by 9pm via email. You can easily book a rapid COVID test in Orange County through our website.
Negative PCR test results mean that you likely do not have a current COVID-19 infection. You do not need to do anything, including self-isolating for 10 days. If you still experience symptoms after receiving your negative result, it is recommended that you stay at home until you feel better.
It is recommended by the CDC to schedule a test if you show any COVID-19 symptoms or signs, even if you are fully vaccinated or had a previous SARS-CoV-2 infection. These signs include fever, chills, coughing, fatigue, congestion, body soreness, shortness of breath, and loss of taste or smell. You should also get tested if you have been exposed to someone confirmed or suspected of infection, even if you do not have COVID symptoms. This test should be performed 4-5 days after your expected exposure. Additionally, testing may be required by schools, workplaces, healthcare providers, and certain locations when traveling.

COVID-19 recovery depends on severity of the case:

  • Mild Cases: Most mild cases of COVID-19 can take 1-2 weeks to recover from
  • Moderate Cases: Recovery for moderate cases can take anywhere from 2-4 weeks
  • Severe Cases: Recovery from severe cases of COVID-19 can take 6 weeks or longer, depending on the severity of the symptoms and other factors. Some patients with COVID-19 will have ongoing symptoms for months after recovering from the initial virus