METHODS FOR DETECTION OF SARS – CoV 2 CORONAVIRUS
What are they and how are they performed?
Two types of tests are available for the detection of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus:
1) Molecular Detection of Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) which is suitable for detecting a current active infection.
The molecular test is performed by collecting samples from the oropharynx or nasopharynx (through the nose or mouth) using a simple swab.
If the sample is positive, this means that you have an active infection with the virus, regardless of whether symptoms are present.
If the sample is negative and has been collected correctly 2-3 days after the presumed exposure, then you do not have an active infection with the virus. However, there is a possibility that it may become positive later if symptoms appear or if someone becomes infected after the initial test was taken.
2 ) The antibody test against the virus, which:
- Checks the antibodies produced by the human body (that is, its immune response) when the virus enters the body.
- Detects previous exposure – infection with the virus.
The antibody test is performed by taking a blood sample from the patient and detects either:
- IgG or IgM antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 virus, or
- Total antibodies against the SARS-CoV-2 virus
| DETECTION METHOD
SARS-CoV-2 |
RESULT | INTERPRETATION OF RESULT |
| Molecular test (PCR) | Positive | You have an active infection |
| Molecular test (PCR) | Negative | It is highly likely that you do not have an active infection |
| Antibody test (Either individual or total) | Positive | You were most likely infected with the virus at least 7-10 days ago |
| Antibody test (Either individual or total) | Negative | You were probably not infected or did not develop antibodies |
| *Comment: The results of laboratory SARS–CoV-2 detection methods should be discussed with the treating physician. | ||
It is indicated for determining whether the person being tested came into contact with the virus at least 7-10 days earlier. The presence of antibodies against the virus may indicate protection against a new infection, but the duration of this protection is not known.
It is particularly important that testing, whether by molecular test or antibody test, is performed using reliable methods and that samples are collected by trained personnel.
In all cases, the recommendations of the National Public Health Organization (EODY) regarding compliance with protective measures should be followed while awaiting test results or when repeat testing is required.
Athens Medical Group, responding to the continuing need for rapid, accessible and reliable Coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) detection testing, entered into a strategic partnership with the Genotypos AIE Diagnostic Center, the first laboratory in Greece to receive accreditation from the Hellenic Accreditation System for the Molecular Detection of Coronavirus (SARS–CoV-2).
As a result of this strategic partnership, Athens Medical Group offers private individuals, insurance companies and professionals the opportunity to undergo diagnostic testing for the SARS–CoV-2 virus at the special preferential price of €60, using a CE-IVD certified technique, in accordance with the requirements of ISO-15189 for diagnostic testing.
At the same time, emphasizing the importance of prevention, Athens Medical Group offers, in Athens and Thessaloniki, testing for IgM and IgG antibodies against the SARS–CoV-2 virus, at the special preferential price of €25 each, and total antibodies at the special price of €40.
The above diagnostic tests are performed at all clinics of Athens Medical Group.
For information and appointment scheduling, interested parties may call Monday through Friday, from 08:00 to 15:00, at the following telephone numbers:
- Athens Medical Center: tel. 210 6862643 – 644
- Psychiko Medical Center: tel. 210 6974032
- P. Faliro Medical Center: tel. 210 9892491
- Peristeri Medical Center: tel. 210 5799112
- Interbalkan Medical Center of Thessaloniki: tel. 2310 400462
