It is needless to say traveling has been hit hard in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. On a daily basis, uncertainties surrounding travel restrictions continue to grow amid rising new COVID-19 variants.
Thankfully, the pandemic does not totally restrict you from traveling and getting back to business or your loved ones as long as you understand the various travel testing requirements. Read on to discover what you need to know about COVID-19 travel and testing requirements.
Overview of the Various Types of Tests
Different types of COVID-19 tests exist. The aim of these tests is to detect the presence of the virus that causes COVID-19. Proper interpretation of test results is also important to help you keep yourself and your family safe.
A negative test result means you do not have COVID-19 at the time of the test, so it is not a license for you to stop staying safe. But if you test positive, then you need to self-isolate even if you do not show symptoms. Check out these various types of COVID-19 tests and what they mean for travel.
Antigen Test
The rapid antigen test detects antigens that are found within or on the surface of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The test is fast and can be used as a home-based rapid test kit. Because COVID-19 testing requirements change regularly, it is essential to determine if just the rapid test is acceptable in various airlines and destination countries.
PCR Test
The PCR test is usually considered the gold standard for COVID-19 tests due to its ability to detect the genetic material of the SARS-CoV-2 virus through a nasal swab. It is highly accurate and provides efficient results. Most airlines and destination countries require proof of a negative PCR test for COVID-19, although requirements may vary.
Dual Flu & COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test
COVID-19 infection has overlapping symptoms with flu-related infections, so it can be difficult to detect unless with standard diagnostic testing. Thankfully, a new addition to the diagnostic testing kits is the dual flu & COVID-19 rapid antigen test which is capable of detecting both the virus causing COVID-19 and the influenza virus strains A and B. Fortunately, we conduct this test at Rapid Care.
Understanding COVID-19 Testing Requirements for Travel
Times have changed since the beginning of the pandemic, so there are a few things you should know if you’re considering traveling during these uncertain times. Remember, traveling requirements evolve from time to time so you need to keep yourself updated. Understanding the testing requirements in your destination country is key.
Additionally, these testing requirements vary from state to state and country to country. They constantly get updated so you need to familiarize yourself with them. Thankfully, at Rapid Care, we prepare you for the various types of tests that you may need for travel and work so you can proceed with peace of mind.
A growing number of agencies and the government are handing out free COVID-19 tests. Although these tests are based on good practice guidelines, they CANNOT be used for travel, work, and school. At Rapid Care, our tests follow standard procedures, and you will receive your result that same day for travel, work, and return-to-school tests.
There are no hidden costs with our tests as seen with travel tests at CVS or Walgreens that can charge you $150 – $300 unexpectedly. Also, we value your time, so we do everything to keep you safe during your test. You don’t even have to stay around sick people, unlike many other testing sites.
We follow the best performance standards at Rapid Care that will provide you with fast and efficient testing results within the same day. Schedule an appointment for COVID-19 testing in Memphis and Germantown, TN.
