The procedure for COVID-19 testing generally involves collecting a sample from the patient, which can be done through:
- Nasopharyngeal swab: A long swab is inserted through the nose to reach the back of the throat. - Oropharyngeal swab: A swab is taken from the back of the throat. - Saliva sample: The patient spits into a sterile container. - Blood sample: This is typically used for antibody tests.
The collected sample is then processed using the appropriate testing method.