Swab or Spit? Demystifying Rapid COVID Tests

Gone are the days of long clinic lines for COVID testing. Rapid antigen tests (RATs) offer a quick and convenient alternative, allowing you to test at home and get results within minutes.

While not as precise as traditional PCR tests, RATs are great for detecting COVID-19, especially early on before symptoms show.

So, what are the options?

There are two main types of rapid tests available:

• Nasal Swab: This involves inserting a swab a short distance into your nose and swirling it around for a short time. It may not be the most comfortable option, but it’s generally considered the more accurate method.
• Saliva Test: This is a simpler approach. You simply collect saliva under your tongue or from the side of your mouth and deposit it into the test kit. It’s less invasive, but recent studies suggest it might be slightly less accurate for detecting certain variants.

The Great Debate: Saliva vs. Nasal?

A recent study compared saliva RATs with nasal RATs and found that saliva tests perfectly matched PCR results (the gold standard) for the Omicron variant, while nasal RATs were accurate 86% of the time. This suggests saliva tests might be promising for detecting specific variants.

However, it’s important to consult with healthcare professionals for guidance on which test is best for your situation.

The Bottom Line:

Rapid tests offer a convenient way to screen for COVID-19 at home. Whether you choose a nasal swab or saliva test ultimately depends on your individual needs and preferences. For the most accurate results, especially if you’ve been exposed, a follow-up PCR test might still be recommended.