As we reported today, COVID-19 cases are on the rise again, and that means more testing if we want to prevent even further spreading. If you have symptoms, it is highly recommended that you get tested. Fortunately, there are two testing tents on Larchmont Blvd. this week, with easy walk-up testing. However, both only offer free tests with insurance.
Both tents offer PCR tests as well as rapid antigen tests. Results for PCR tests are usually returned within 24 hours and rapid tests results are available within 15-25 minutes. The rapid tests are essentially the same tests you can purchase for use at home. Both are excellent tools to help determine if you have COVID so you can self-quarantine.
Asked which one is better, Moses Jung, a medical technician for C19 Testing, told us both tests were over 90% effective at detecting the virus. The PCR test is more accurate (99%) and capable of detecting smaller amounts of the virus, explained Jung, though the rapid test is 90-92% accurate.
If you have symptoms, Â get the quick antigen test, if it is available. If it is positive, you can start isolating to protect those around you from the spread of the virus. If the antigen test is negative, professionals recommend getting a PCR test and isolating yourself until you receive the result.
If you don’t have symptoms but want to be tested because you may have been exposed, the PCR test is the better choice because it can find small amounts of the virus that might be seen before symptoms start.
Jung told us traffic been much slower than it was earlier this year, when C19 Testing was doing hundreds of tests a week. But lately, the number of tests have been rising, he said.
The only day you can’t get a test is Saturday. C19 Testing is on Larchmont and First Street from Sunday-Thursday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and The Testing Company is there from Monday-Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Below are photos of the scan codes for each site. Stay safe!
