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COVID-19 RT PCR Test
Also Known As : COVID-19 Test, SARS-CoV-2 RNA Detection, Coronavirus Test, Nasal Swab Test, Throat Swab Test, Viral RNA Test
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Brief Details
What Is COVID-19 RT PCR Test?
An RT PCR Test (Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction) is a highly accurate laboratory method used to detect the genetic material of viruses. This test helps confirm if you have an active COVID-19 infection by detecting the presence of SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA in your system. The test uses a nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swab collected from your nose and throat.
Frequently asked questions
Find quick answers to the most common questions about health tests, bookings, and reports.
The ideal time to take an RT PCR test is within 3-5 days after exposure to an infected person or as soon as you develop symptoms. Testing too early after exposure may result in a false negative because the virus may not have multiplied enough to be detectable in your system.
No, overnight fasting is not required for the RT PCR test. Since this test uses nasal and throat swabs rather than blood samples, you can eat and drink normally before the test. There are no dietary restrictions or fasting requirements for accurate results.
Dehydration is unlikely to significantly impact your RT PCR test results. The test detects viral RNA in your respiratory tract through nasal and throat swabs, which is not directly affected by your hydration level. However, staying normally hydrated is always recommended for overall health.
No special dietary preparations are needed for the RT PCR test. You should continue taking all your regular medications as prescribed by your doctor unless specifically advised otherwise. It's helpful to inform the sample collector about any medications you're currently taking.
The RT PCR swab test is very safe with minimal risks. You might experience a few seconds of discomfort, a tickling sensation, eye watering, or a brief urge to gag when the swab is inserted. In very rare cases, minor nosebleeds can occur.
A normal RT PCR test result is "Negative" or "Not Detected", indicating no SARS-CoV-2 virus was found in your sample. Your doctor will interpret these results.
The RT PCR test is commonly known by several names, including the COVID-19 test, the SARS-CoV-2 RNA test, the coronavirus test, the nasal swab test, the throat swab test, and the viral RNA test. All these names refer to the same diagnostic procedure for detecting active COVID-19 infection.
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Why Metropolis Healthcare?
Metropolis has been present for over 43 years in the market.
Metropolis has a team of 200 senior pathologists and over 2000 technicians delivering diagnostic solutions in the areas of routine, semi specialty and super specialty domains like Oncology, Neurology, Gynaecology, Nephrology and many more.
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750+ Cities
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4,100+
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About Us
Metropolis Healthcare is a leading diagnostic service provider in India. We are a team of dedicated professionals committed to ensuring you and your family receive the most accurate and timely healthcare solutions. We believe in making health care accessible, affordable and evidence-based. Our expert panel are equipped with the latest technology and manned by a certified team of over 4000+ technicians.
In diagnostic services, we have more than three decades of experience servicing diverse stakeholders health advantage packages for men, women and seniors, genetic fitness & corporation in over 650+ tests like Oncology, Neurology, Gynaecology, Haematology, and many more. Our diagnostic services are located in leading doctors and clinics and serve over 15+ cities in India.
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View your reports and upcoming health checkups at one place.
Please enter the OTP sent to your registered mobile number to verify your identity.
Not sure which tests to take? Share your prescription with us and our team will call you.
Popular Searches
Frequently Booked Tests
Frequently Booked Packages
Please share your details, our health advisor will call you or you can call us at 0804-8911-400.
Please share your details, our health advisor will call you or you can call us at 0804-8911-400.