VDH FAQ on Testing
Which type of test, viral or antibody, should be performed when testing is indicated by the recommendations?
An
FDA EUA
viral diagnostic test should be performed when testing is indicated. Antibody testing should not be used in this context.
There are two types of viral diagnostic tests, molecular (e.g., PCR) and antigen. Molecular tests are preferred over antigen tests. Positive results from antigen tests are highly accurate, but negative results do not rule out infection (false negative). Thus, negative results are considered presumptive and must be followed up with a confirmatory molecular test.