PCR Test NI
As the number of cases of Covid-19 continues to decline across NI, we now need to ensure that measures are in place to protect the public, as we go forward. That means taking all necessary precautions to reduce the risk of transmitting the virus and help return us to normality. Therefore, diagnosing and containing the spread of Covid-19 through testing remains imperative.
Around 1 in 3 people with Covid-19 do not show symptoms, so a test that accurately detects these otherwise hidden cases is one of our best tools for tackling the virus. This is where the PCR test comes in. The PCR test detects the presence of genetic material from the Covid-19 virus. The PCR test is the “gold standard” test for diagnosing Covid-19 because it’s the most accurate and reliable.
Private PCR Covid Test Northern Ireland
For a test to be accurate, it must be carried out in a clinical environment. Self-administered home tests can lead to a risk of sample contamination and unreliable results. At JACE Medical, our clinic is run by healthcare professionals who are experienced in sampling and testing for Covid-19. Our aim is to enable you to be reunited with your loved ones in the safety that you won’t be putting them at risk. We also provide testing for corporations to assist in keeping your workforce safe and productive.
PCR Test – How Does It Work?
The PCR Test works in three key steps: 1) sample, 2) extraction, 3) PCR
PCR Test vs Antigen Test
There are two types of tests that detect Covid-19. The second is the antigen test. Both tests require a swab from the back of your nose or throat but unlike the PCR test, the antigen test does not require the sample to be sent to a lab. PCR testing has been proven to yield more accurate results than the antigen test. This is because the PCR test is more sensitive, allowing for the detection of very tiny quantities of the virus. Unlike the antigen test which is best used for detecting whether someone is infected with Covid-19 now. The PCR test can also be used to detect Covid-19 outside of the active infection period. Find out more about the antigen test here.
]]>We have introduced the first virtual testing studio for customers using its travelling service Check2Go. The service has now incorporated the first virtual method of testing.
Check2Go is aimed at travellers who wish to self-administer a test at home. Travellers can now become certified for safe travel virtually while traveling to or back from a foreign country. The service allows travellers to complete the test online with one of Jace Medical’s medical professionals who will certify the results of the test via video conferencing, eliminating the need to visit a testing centre.
JACE Medical is a UKAS recognised provider listed on the government’s website. The company offers a range of tests for pre departure with certification including PCR, Antigen and antibody tests in addition to the tests required on return to the UK including Day 2, 5 and 8.
Dr John T. Doherty, CEO of JACE Medical said: “Travelling can be a stressful process with the current regulations, particularly when you have to find a testing centre. That’s why we’ve introduced the new virtual testing service to our Check2Go product. Travellers can self-test from the comfort of their own home or accommodation if travelling and a medical professional will observe, offer guidance and certify the negative test and required documentation through video conferencing. It reduces the stress of having to seek out a testing centre particularly when abroad where people, more than likely, don’t speak the language.
“People want to travel again, but as it currently stands the testing process can feel overwhelming. Check2Go provides our customers with a one-stop shop to make travelling abroad as easy as it can possibly be.”
The Check2Go service also offers PCR testing for pre and post travel and enables consumers to purchase their test online, receive their test in the post, drop the self-administered test to one of JACE Medical’s clinics, or use a partner lab’s drop boxes across the UK. On receipt of the sample, they receive the results and travel certification for pre departure tests within 24 hours.
The testing provider is now one of the cheapest providers in Ireland and is shipping to customers across the UK and Ireland.
]]>Around 1 in 3 people with Covid-19 do not show symptoms, so a test that quickly detects these otherwise hidden cases is one of our best tools for tackling the virus. This is where antigen testing comes in. In its simplest form, an antigen test or lateral flow is an established technology, adapted to detect proteins (antigens) that are present when a person is currently infected with Covid-19.
Please be aware that some countries now require a negative antigen test result along with a negative PCR test result.
The antigen test kit comes in the form of a hand-held device. Inside is a strip of paper that changes colour in the presence of Covid-19 antigen. Like a home pregnancy test, the result is reflected as a band on the paper strip.
Covid-19 testing is carried out by taking a sample from the back of the throat using a swab. The swab is dipped into the extraction solution. Which is then dipped on to the device’s paper, producing the result. The result appears within minutes after the sample is applied.
There are two types of tests that detect Covid-19. The second is known as PCR testing. Both tests require a swab from the back of your nose or throat but unlike the antigen test, the PCR test sample is sent to a lab for testing. The process can take hours and requires highly sophisticated lab equipment and specialists. This process may be time consuming but it also comes with its perks, in that, the results are almost 100% accurate.
As previously mentioned, the test only takes a few minutes. But while the antigen test may be noticeably quicker, the downside is decreased sensitivity. Therefore the antigen test may not be as accurate at picking up the virus when the individual is outside the active infection stage.
When it comes to the antigen test, the person who administers the test can be crucial. A UK study found that the accuracy of the antigen test fell to 58% when administered by self-trained staff, versus 79% when tested by healthcare professionals. Source Horizon Magazine.
At JACE Medical our clinics are run by healthcare professionals who are experienced in sampling and testing for COVID-19. Our aim is to improve the testing capacity through NI. We want you to be able to spend time with your loved ones in the confidence that you won’t be putting them at risk. We also provide testing for corporations to assist in keeping your workforce safe and productive.
You can order a covid home test kit from Check2Go. We offer Antigen and PCR COVID-19 tests with travel certification.
]]>