COVID-19 has traumatized people from across the globe and initially, it was chaos handling the novel virus. However, with time the RT PCR test provided the much-needed respite by accurate diagnosing if an individual has contracted the coronavirus. The technology dwells on the power of real-time PCR for the detection of the presence of the genetic material and gives highly sensitive test results.
Sample Extraction for the COVID RT PCR testing
As it is a real-time PCR test, it helps in the detection of the presence of genetic material of a virus. The sample is taken as a throat swab for and it is further subjected to PCR technology for amplification of the genetic material. During the test, a small amount of RNA is amplified from DNA and it is replicated which helps in detecting the presence of the genetic material.
The COVID-19 RT PCR test for travel has become mandatory for many places and even for boarding the airlines, checking in to a hotel or for inter or intra-country travel. The RT-PCR test is not only limited to detecting COVID19 but even is an accurate test used for diagnosing another virus like the Ebola virus, Zika virus etc.
Working mechanism of RT-PCR Test for COVID19
The virus consists of genetic material either in form of DNA or RNA and its presence in an individual confirms the contraction of the infection. The coronavirus also called SARS-CoV-2 responsible for causing COVID-19 consists of only RNA as the genetic material. Once infected by COVID-19, the virus use its genetic material to reprogram the cells and convert them into virus-making factories.
The RT PCR testing labs collect the sample from the throat or nose swab. The sample is treated for removal of fat and proteins and extract specifically the RNA portion. There is a reverse transcription for converting the RNA into DNA. Short fragments of DNA complementary to viral DNA is added and these attach to target sections if the viral DNA is present. This is followed by amplification which creates billions of copies of the viral DNA.
The COVID RT PCR test in Delhi is performed by expert professionals using a computerized system. The marker label is attached to the amplified DNA strand and releases fluorescent dye, which is measured using the computer. The lesser the number of PCR cycles needed for amplification; it indicates more severe the viral infection.
Need for RT-PCR test for travel
The RT-PCR test cost in Gurgaon has significantly dropped down from exorbitant Rs 2400/- to Rs 400 – 500. It has become mandatory to take the PCR test for travel on many occasions and an individual is allowed to travel only on present COVID19 negative report for the test taken within 72 hours.
The reduced RT PCR test cost has also improved the accuracy and reduced the total time required for producing the test results. Earlier it took over 12 hours but nowadays an established lab can produce the test results within 3 to 4 hours, speeding up the process.
