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PCR Tests for COVID-19
The PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test works by looking for the presence of the virus in your body. A positive PCR test means that the test detected the genetic material (the RNA) of the virus in the swab or sample being tested.
This is done by adding a solution called a reagent to the sample taken from you, usually via a swab. If the coronavirus is present, the reagent will create billions of copies of the virus’s RNA, giving enough material for the test to detect the virus.