INDIANAPOLIS — President Donald Trump's coronavirus diagnosis is putting a lot of attention back on testing.
Each day, thousands of Hoosiers get tested for COVID-19 and presume the test will answer the question, "Do I have it?" In most cases, it does, but here's what you need to know.
There are two tests. You've likely seen the pictures. Both involve inserting a long swab up the nose or a saliva test.
The PCR (molecular) test has proven to be most accurate, but not perfect, and results can take several days if sent to an outside lab.
The antigen test is newer. It detects proteins in the virus but not the virus itself. On the plus side, It's cheaper and faster. You can get results in 15 minutes, good for testing in large numbers. But the antigen test is not nearly as sensitive.
It's why there's a greater chance of false negative results, which means you may be infected but still test negative.
There is also an antibody test, which involves taking a blood sample. It can show if you've already had the virus and built up antibodies to fight it. This is especially helpful for people who may have unknowingly had it now might have some immunity from getting it again.
More than one million Hoosiers have been tested for COVID-19 since the start of the pandemic. There are 252 testing sites around the state. Since they are all different, it is important to check the hours and if you need to make an appointment.
Some sites have certain requirements, such as showing symptoms, being exposed to an individual that tested positive, being an essential worker or healthcare employee.
If you do not meet any of these requirements, you can go to one of the state’s Optum testing sites, which are open to anyone who lives or works in Indiana. Most require an appointment.
Result times vary depending on the lab. Some people get results in a day or after several days.