How to Get RTPCR Covid-19 Test Done?

What is RTPCR for COVID?

It is the mandatory lab test that helps in determining the virus infection of COVID-19. The test is designed to detect the SARS-CoV-2. It helps in providing a clear report whether the individual is suffering from COVID-19 or not.

Why is RTPCR done?

The test is done to determine the following:

• Individual suffering from or displaying influenza like symptoms withtravel history within 14 days. If anyone is suffering from such illness, then they should visit a lab for RTPCR test.
• Even healthcare workers, frontline workers and others who are working in close association with containment of COVID-19.
• Patients suffering from severe cases of SARI or Severe Acute Respiratory Infection.
• High risk contacts close to a confirmed case should be tested within 5-10 days of any such contact.
• People living in containment zones or hotspots.
• Migrants and people who have been travelling should go for the test within 7 days of any such display of symptoms.

Method for RTPCR or Real-Time PCR

It is essential to remember that RTPCR test is to be done from ICMR approved lab only like the one provided by Mahabir Doctor’s Hub located in Siliguri. The test is about providing accurate real time Transcriptase (RT)-PCR Diagnostic Panels. However, there are some mandatory requirements for the test that should be fulfilled, these are as follows:

Requirements:

• Full name of the individual
• Active Mobile Number
• Aadhar card copy/ Passport / Voter ID
• Travel history of the patient is essential and should be provided accurately
• Documents shall be shared with the testing centre for ICMR RT-PCR Registration.
• The time slot shall be confirmed by centre.
• Payment procedure is touchless using the QR Code or by cash.

Method:

• The first stage is sample collection that is done via nose swab. Sample collected from the nose through a flexible stick. The stick is contained within a sealed tube.
• Second stage is that of extraction, on receiving the sample this is the next step carried by laboratory technologist. The sample is isolated for further testing to determine the presence of virus.
• The third stage is PRC step with the use of special chemicals involving PCR machine that enables in determining the presence of any infection within the sample. It is detected through the signal of fluorescent light and special software designed to identify it whether it is positive or negative.

How much time it takes to get RT-PCR test report?

Conducting RT-PCR test is expensive, so the lab runs large batches of samples together. Also, depending on time taken in collecting swab sample, to transportation of samples from collection point to the testing lab, adds to the time taken by labs to conduct and report test result. Completing the test takes 4-8 hours, but reporting may take more than 1 day.

After taking both the dose of Covid Vaccine, Why RT-PCR test is required for travelling?

RT-PCR test report is mandatory before visiting a place because, double dose of covid vaccine is not a guarantee that you may not contract covid-19 or that you will not get re-infected. Taking Covid Vaccine provides you better immune response against the infection and may save you from adverse effects of the covid-19. RT-PCR test result may still come positive if you have come in contact with the virus or infected person.

What are things to remember about RT-PCR test for Covid-19?

• No preparation is required to undergo the RT-PCR test.
• RT-PCR test is not a blood test.
• It’s a painless test, and conducted without much discomfort.
• Swab sample can be collected anytime of the day or night. But should be sent for testing as soon as it is collected. Keeping the swab VTM (Viral Transmission Medium) Tube overnight may give inaccurate result.
• Charges of the test may vary from place to place. But it should be conducted in a government authorized testing lab only.
• Majority of the testing lab reports have QR code in it. This ensures authenticity of the report.
• For traveller, one should inform the lab about your reason of getting the test done, so that your purpose of conducting the test is met within the stipulated of time.

The pandemic is at large, and it is always better to be well-equipped to fight it. The best way is to get vaccinated, the most popular vaccines against COVID-19 is Covishield and Covaxin that are a must to provide better immunity against this deadly virus.

Where can you get Covid-19 RT-PCR Testing Centre in Siliguri?

Mahabir Doctor’s Hub, Polyclinic provides accurate and timely report of RT-PCR test in Siliguri. Home collection of Swab Sample is possible and can be availed by booking an appointment with our Clinic in Siliguri. The reporting is done from an ICMR approved Covid testing centre in Siliguri, Dist. Darjeeling. All our reports have QR Code for scanning at the airport.

The report will be sent to patient’s mobile number and email id upon request and hard copy of the report will be available from the RT-PCR testing collection centre located at Hill Cart Road, Siliguri.