While you no longer have to take covid-19 tests when you arrive back in the UK after a trip abroad, there may be some instances where you still want to get tested. This could be for work, for personal reasons, or simply because you’re worried you might get your friends and family ill with covid.

If you want to get tested for covid-19 either before or after travel, contact West Chemist. We can provide you with proof of a negative covid test for travel as well as a same-day PCR test in Northampton.

Antigen Test for Travel

The Antigen Test (also known as the Rapid Antigen test) is one of the two main tests used for Covid-19. The Covid Antigen Test is one of the fastest ways to find out if you have covid. While it is reliable, it is best for people who have an active covid-19 infection. A certain amount of the virus needs to be present for the test to provide the most accurate results.

A Rapid Antigen Test is carried out through a nose or throat swab to collect a sample. The sample then immediately goes through a rapid analysis to check for specific proteins and antigens that are present when you have covid. You can get results in as little as 15 minutes with this form of testing.

PCR Covid Test for Travel

The most accurate test for covid-19 is the PCR test. However, unlike antigen tests, PCR tests need to be analyzed with specialist equipment, such as those used in a laboratory. PCR testing takes more time than a rapid antigen test, but they do provide more accurate results. Whereas you can have covid and get a negative antigen test, it’s less likely that you have covid if you test negative through a PCR test. It’s even sensitive enough to detect whether you previously had a covid-19 infection.

Contact us or book an appointment online for a covid test for travel in Northampton and for a rapid antigen covid test in Northampton, UK. Our private covid testing provides you with fast results that you can trust.


2 Comments

Understanding PCR Tests in Northampton: What You Need to Know – West · May 9, 2023 at 1:59 pm

[…] you need to take the test will depend on the requirements of where you plan to travel. Ensure you check your airline’s or destination’s most recent updates so you can get the […]

Understanding PCR Tests in Northampton: What You Need to Know · May 9, 2023 at 2:17 pm

[…] you need to take the test will depend on the requirements of where you plan to travel. Ensure you check your airline’s or destination’s most recent updates so you can get the […]

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