The PCR test is the most reliable form of test indicating infection with the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus.

A PCR test is carried out by a trained member of staff who takes a sample from you. The sample is taken either from your throat, by inserting a swab into your mouth, or from the back of your nose, by inserting the swab into your nose. The sample is then sent to a lab to be analyzed.

When the sample is analyzed, the so-called polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is used to reproduce the hereditary material of the virus many times over. This makes it possible to detect the virus even when it is only present in the body in small quantities.

A PCR test can be used if infection is suspected, or if a rapid antigen test has already given a positive result, or if the person has symptoms suggesting SARS-Cov-2 infection.

PCR tests are also a requirement in certain everyday situations such as before hospital admission or when travelling by air.

It takes a few hours to carry out a PCR test. This means it can take one day or longer for the result of a PCR test to come through.

Further information is available at infektionsschutz.de, the website of BZgA (the Federal Centre for Health Education).

 

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