COUNTY News:

With an increase in positive COVID-19 cases emerging across Los Alamos County, more individuals and families are faced with the need to test for the virus.

Viral tests are done one of two ways:

• via a rapid point-of-care test; or
• a laboratory test.

The County COVID-19 Committee explains the difference, as well as the pros and cons of each option.

A viral test (diagnostic test) tells you if you are infected with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, using samples that come from your nose or mouth.

The two methods:

• Rapid tests – can be performed in minutes and include Self-tests – rapid tests that can be taken at home or anywhere, are easy to use, and produce rapid results.
• Laboratory tests – can take days to complete and include PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests.

Rapid Self-tests for COVID-19 give rapid results and can be taken anywhere, regardless of your vaccination status or whether or not you have symptoms:

• They detect current infection and are sometimes also called “home tests,” “at-home tests,” or “over-the-counter (OTC) tests.”
• They give your result in a few minutes and are different from laboratory-based tests that may take days to return your result.
• Self-tests do not detect antibodies which would suggest a previous infection and they do not measure your level of immunity.

For detailed information about when and how to use a rapid self-test, as well as where to get one, visit the CDC Self-test page

Laboratory (PCR) tests are a fast, highly accurate way to diagnose COVID-19:

• The tests find the DNA or RNA of a pathogen or abnormal cells in a sample. 
• Unlike many other tests, PCR tests can find evidence of disease in the earliest stages of infection. Other tests may miss early signs of disease because there aren’t enough viruses, bacteria, or other pathogens in the sample, or your body hasn’t had enough time to develop an antibody response. 
• PCR tests can detect disease when there is only a very small amount of pathogens in your body.

For detailed information about PCR tests, visit the National Library of Medicine PCR Test page.

Which test is it the best? The CDC recommends first determining the reason to get tested: 

• If you have COVID-19 symptoms
• At least 5 days after known or suspected close contact to COVID-19
• For screening (schools, workplaces, congregate settings, etc.)
• Before and after travel
• When asked by a healthcare professional or public health official

Next, compare the two testing methods to determine what option is best for each situation:

• Rapid Self-Test
  • When to test varies
    • At least 5 days after your exposure
    • Immediately if experiencing symptoms
  • Results usually in 15-30 minutes
  • Results may be less reliable for people without symptoms:
    • Positive results from self-tests are highly reliable – results need to be self-reported
    • Negative results from self-tests do not rule out SARS-CoV-2 infection. A negative self-test result may not be reliable, especially if you have symptoms associated with COVID-19.
    • Invalid results from self-tests mean the test did not work properly, and a new test is needed to get an accurate result.
  • Follow-up test may be required
    • If you test negative for COVID-19, consider testing again 1 to 2 days after your first test
• Laboratory (PCR) Test
  • Results usually in 1-3 days
  • Results are reliable for people with and without symptoms
  • No follow-up test required

Once the testing method is determined, use these resources to find a testing option:

• Rapid Self-tests are often available through local pharmacies. Individuals can also order free test kits through the U.S. Post Office.
• Laboratory (PCR) testing is available Monday-Friday in Los Alamos County:
  • Los Alamos from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. every Tuesday and Thursday at the Mari-Mac Shopping Center. Visit the Curative website to schedule a date and time.
  • White Rock from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday at Overlook Complex. No registration is required.

For more testing options and information, visit the Los Alamos County COVID Testing website.