Get a PCR test done.

8 Frequently Asked Questions About the COVID-19 PCR Test

1. What is the COVID-19 PCR Test?
   Shortly after the first coronavirus case was identified in Turkey, the Minister of Health, Fahrettin Koca, announced that PCR and antibody tests would be conducted to assess immunity and diagnose the disease.
   So, what is the PCR test? The PCR method involves the replication of nucleotides under suitable conditions in a tube. It is widely used in medical and biological research laboratories for purposes such as genetic fingerprinting, gene cloning, paternity testing, identifying hereditary diseases, and DNA analysis.

2. Who Should Take the COVID-19 PCR Test?
   The test is primarily conducted on individuals experiencing symptoms like fever, cough, and shortness of breath, based on preliminary findings by ENT specialists.
   Additionally, people who have been in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19 within the past 14 days are also tested, even if they do not show symptoms. Testing is a crucial measure to prevent an increase in positive cases in the community. Alongside testing, maintaining social distancing, cleanliness, and mask usage is essential.

3. Where Can People Planning to Travel Abroad Get a COVID-19 PCR Test?
   Countries such as Northern Cyprus and Germany now require a negative PCR test result obtained within 48 hours before travel. Samples for the test can be taken at health institutions authorized by the Ministry of Health, and results are evaluated in designated laboratories.

4. How is the COVID-19 PCR Test Performed?

• Samples are collected using swabs from the patient’s nose and throat.
• These swabs are placed in a special solution known as a viral transport medium and sent to an authorized laboratory.
• The samples are analyzed using the PCR method, and a report is generated.

5. How Long Does It Take to Get COVID-19 PCR Test Results?
   Depending on the method, lab conditions, and workload, standard PCR tests usually provide results within 2-4 hours. In some cases, it may take a full day for confirmation. Rapid diagnostic tests can yield results in 15 minutes but are less reliable than PCR tests.

6. What Should Be Considered During Testing?
   For reliable results, samples must be taken from the correct area, preferably by specialists. Nasopharyngeal swabs, taken from the back of the nasal cavity, are essential for accurate detection, although they may cause discomfort for the patient.

7. What Does a Negative Test Result Mean?
   A negative result indicates the absence of the virus. However, factors like insufficient RNA in the sample, improper handling, or mutations may affect accuracy.

8. What Does a Positive Test Result Mean, and What Should Be Done?
   A positive result confirms infection or carrier status. Patients are advised to undergo further testing, such as CT scans, for confirmation. Necessary precautions, isolation, and treatment plans should follow. Contacts from the past 14 days should also be informed and tested.