COVID-19 testing involves the identification of the virus in individuals through various diagnostic methods. The primary types of tests include PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) tests, antigen tests, and antibody tests. PCR tests detect the viral RNA and are considered the gold standard due to their high sensitivity and specificity. Antigen tests, while quicker, are less sensitive but useful for rapid screening. Antibody tests identify past infections by detecting the body's immune response to the virus.
