COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) Antigen Test
Introduction
SARS-CoV-2 is an acute respiratory infectious disease. People are generally susceptible. Currently, the patients infected by the coronavirus are the main source of infection.
SARS-CoV-2 infectivity is now recognised to occur before the onset of symptoms and yet high titres of virus can be detected on upper airway surfaces in people who do not develop symptoms.
Based on the current epidemiological investigation, the incubation period is 1 to 14 days, mostly 3 to 7 days. The main manifestations include fever, fatigue, and dry cough. Nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat, myalgia, and diarrhoea are found in a few cases.
If an employee has come in to contact with a person who has had a positive SARS-Cov-2 test, then we would advise that person to self- isolate for 14 days and follow Government Guidelines.
If an employee developed SARS-Cov-2 symptoms we would advise that they self- isolate for 10 days, following the Government guidelines, and to arrange a SARS-CoV-2 test within 1-5 days of their symptoms presenting. If the employee was very unwell, they should contact their GP or NHS 111. We currently do not offer home testing and would advise to contact the NHS for testing:
Method of testing for COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2)
The lab test gives results within 48 hours and is via a throat and nasal swab that we send to The Doctors Laboratory (TDL) and assays used at TDL show a minimum sensitivity of 98% and a specificity of 100%, with no cross-reactivity with other viruses.
The results are back within 48 hours from the lab and will be emailed via Egress, a secure email, to the employee and HR, with the employee’s consent. The email will contain an explanation of what the result means and guidelines to follow + the letter headed lab result form.
Specimen collection
The specimen is collected from the back of the throat and the nasal passages using a dry swab.
Limitations and clinical interpretation
As with all viral PCR assays, patients with very low viral loads are less likely to be detected. ‘Not detected’ results do not preclude infection with the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
Booking a test
Tests can be arranged at our Barbican clinic. Please email contact@citihealth.co.uk or call 07900 923510 to book a date and time for your employees.
TO BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT COmplete our booking form on the link above, CALL 020 3633 6301 OR EMAIL US AT contact@citihealth.co.uk
For further information please contact
Gayle Anderson
Tel 0203 633 6301
Mobile 07900 923510
Email gayle@citihealth.co.uk
Web www.citihealth.co.uk
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