Chapter
Different types of COVID-19 tests and how they work
38:08 - 42:27 (04:18)
The three main types of COVID-19 tests are ones that detect the genetic material of the virus (RT-PCR), ones that detect the presence of antigens (rapid antigen), and ones that detect antibodies that have been produced in response to the virus. Antigen tests are generally only positive if people have actively replicating virus in them.
Clips
PCR tests are commonly used to detect the genetic code of the virus by analyzing RNA, while antigen tests identify the proteins present in the virus.
38:08 - 40:39 (02:31)
COVID-19 Testing
Summary
PCR tests are commonly used to detect the genetic code of the virus by analyzing RNA, while antigen tests identify the proteins present in the virus. Both aim to detect the actual virus, not the immune response to it.
ChapterDifferent types of COVID-19 tests and how they work
Episode#146 – Michael Mina: Rapid Testing, Viruses, and the Engineering Mindset
PodcastLex Fridman Podcast
Antigen tests look for structures and can only turn positive if the virus is actively replicating in the body, while RNA tests look for the genetic material of the virus.
40:39 - 42:27 (01:47)
COVID-19
Summary
Antigen tests look for structures and can only turn positive if the virus is actively replicating in the body, while RNA tests look for the genetic material of the virus.