Cheap PCR Test Birmingham Is Helping Speed Up Covid-19 Testing
We all remember how frightening the price tag for a Covid-19 test looked one year ago. It started from £220 and luckily has been decreasing since then, which offered a chance to travel without making a huge hole in our wallet. The cheap PCR testing in Birmingham enables more people to travel and go to events that require a negative PCR test. Keep reading for more information on PCR testing and how to find the cheapest PCR tests.
What Is PCR Test?
The PCR test can be used to detect various infectious diseases like HIV and SARS COV-2. The PCR test is a method of molecular diagnostic testing that targets genetic sequences of DNA and RNA. This method involves the amplification of DNA by a DNA primer.
Pcr testing uses a DNA sample that is obtained through a nasal and throat swab. The DNA sample is then added to a polymerase enzyme. The enzyme copies the DNA multiple times, over an hour. The resulting molecules have billions of copies and a result will be presented on the machine. If the virus was present, the PCR test will show the presence of COVID-19, a virus that can cause a high fever, which causes high body temperature.
How Is The PCR Test Performed?
The PCR test is a relatively simple procedure. You will need a clean surface and to blow your nose. You will then need to place the PCR test kit on a clean surface. The swab should be removed from the packet at the end with the stick, and should never touch your teeth, tongue, or gums. Once the swab is placed on the surface, you can proceed to the next step.
In general, the PCR method is the most accurate way to detect infections. A positive or negative result will be an indicator of a disease that is present in the body.
Where Can I Get A Cheap PCR Test In Birmingham?
The cheapest way to get a PCR test is to order a home test kit and do it yourself at home. You can search on the internet for cheap PCR tests in Birmingham or you can go straight to the government website where you will find a list of all accredited PCR test providers and their prices. Bear in mind that the prices might change, so it’s better to double-check on the providers official website if the offer is available. At the type of writing this article, we have found Randox tests to be the cheapest and widely available. You can find their offers on https://birmingham.randox.com/.
The booking system will ask you to fill in your details and tell them why you want to book a PCR test, and then you can schedule a time and date for the appointment.
What Are The Alternatives For PCR Tests?
PCR testing is the gold standard for diagnosing the presence of infectious diseases. It is also used to screen for viral RNA in samples. Unlike the antigen test, PCR can detect a virus’ RNA even before the person has symptoms of the disease. As a result, the PCR test is able to identify diseases even before the virus can infect a person. Moreover, it can also be used to diagnose certain types of cancer, such as leukaemia.
PCR-based testing is a time-consuming process that can take a day to complete. Since a patient must submit a sample for the PCR test, the sample needs to be shipped to a lab.
The PCR test is more sensitive than antigen tests, which means antigen testing may miss a small percentage of cases. However, the results of the PCR test can take up to a day compared to an antigen which offers results in less than 30 minutes, and it’s important to note that this type of test is more expensive than antigen. As a result, only large centralized testing facilities can perform them on a regular basis. It can cost up to £100 or more per test. Nevertheless, it’s worth the wait.
PCR test uses viral RNA as a marker. The results of this test are accurate when the patient has had symptoms for a few days. If the antigen test is negative, a PCR is usually recommended to confirm the result. A PCR test is however more expensive than an antigen test. Although the results of antigen tests can be available in minutes, a PCR test may require up to 24 hours.
