Here's how the RT-PCR testing is done, according to a physician

In a report on Unang Hirit, Physician Safeguard DNA Diagnostics Inc., Dr. Marc Angelo P. Corrales shared some commonly asked questions on COVID-19 swab testing.

Dr. Corrales said to be able to have a RT-PCR test, you have book ahead or be scheduled, as facilities maintain orderliness.

The next step is the actual swab test. "It's very common that we do nasal or parapharyngeal swabbing para makakuha ng sample na maira-run sa lab, magawa natin yung RT-PCR testing," Corrales said.

The physician said it is important to maintain clean surroundings clean while a frontliner performs the test. He should be in full personal protective equipment (PPE) — including gloves! — "para of course you prevent contamination and at the same time hindi rin tayo magkakaron ng sakit basta-basta." 

Does it hurt?

Much has been said about how painful a swab test is supposed to be, but according to Corrales it's actually "tolerable."

"Sabi ng marami parang nalunod ka lang saglit, parang may pumasok na tubig sa  ilong, but in general very tolerable," he said.

It lasts some 10-15 seconds and "it's irritating but what's 10-15 seconds kung malalaman mo naman yung status mo," he countered.

When do test results arrive?

The standard time for test results to arrive is 3-5 days, but there are services now that can deliver in 24 to 48 hours, at an extra cost.

Should you test positive, Dr. Corrales said the first thing you need to do is isolate to prevent further spread of infection.

Someone from your home should report it to the Department of Health or to your barangay, for proper contact tracing.

While in isolation, Dr. Corrales stressed the importance of eating healthy and clean for a faster recovery.

"Dapat maaga 'yung pag-test, early treatment is still the best and of course hygiene will always be beneficial," Corrales added.

If you test negative, Dr. Corrales said you should continue following the protocols.

He warned that just because you tested negative today doesn't mean the results will be the same the next day.

"It doesn't mean na forever ka na negative. Let's say today ka nagpa-test tapos 'yung result lumabas mo in three days ibig sabihin yung testing for previous infection hindi ibig sabihin na negative ka ng Monday, eh Tuesday negative ka pa rin. hindi ganon," Dr. Corrales explained.

The physician said even when one tests negative they should never be complacent and still take extra precautions.

"You have to be very careful, you have to be very clean and you have to be very mindful with the people around you," he said.

What is the difference between RT-PCR and Antigen test?

According to Dr. Corrales, the RT-PCR test looks for pieces of the genetic strand of SARS-COV 2, which causes a COVID-19 as well as acute infection or active infection.

The Antigen test meanwhile looks for pieces of protein that make up SARS-COV 2.

Antigen tests might appear cheaper than RT-PCT tests but according to Corrales, their prices are not too far from each other.

As a medical professional, Dr. Corrales highly recommends taking the RT-PCR test to know your health status for COVID-19 since he said it is the "gold standard."

"Mas ok talaga yung RT-PCR kasi yung mismong gene hinahanap niya," Corrales said.

He reminded the public to always clean up, wash your hands, shower once you step into your home, and don't touch random surfaces.