CVS Covid Testing in Drive-through: What to Expect?

CVS covid testing is a blessing in the current circumstances.

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Covid-19 Death Toll

The covid-19 virus has wreaked havoc on society as a whole. The first coronavirus case was seen in the December of 2019. Since then, it has taken the lives of many. The virus did not discriminate between the young and the old, but the old people were hit harder than the young ones. This was because of the low immunity of the old people.

Globally, as of 2 July 2021, there are approximately one hundred eighty-two million confirmed cases of Covid-19, including the 3 million deaths. Though there are vaccines available, they would not control the spread of the virus, so it is best to get tested if you feel the following symptoms:

Fever
Cough
Fatigue
Body aches
Diarrhoea
Conjunctivitis
Loss of Taste & Smell
Chest Pain
Shortness of Breath

If you have one of the above-listed symptoms, then it is time that you go to a general physician. If the physician suspects covid-19, then he will ask you to get it tested. The testing for Covid-19 is also compulsory for foreign travels. Many countries ask for testing to be done 3 to 4 days before travelling.

Covid-19 Testing

Many tests are performed to test a person for Covid-19. All tests have a different time frame for results. Some give you results on the spot, while you have to wait for about 2 to 5 days for others. The time will also depend upon what test you are taking and what clinic or laboratories you choose.

Who Should Get the Test Done?

Not everyone should get their test done, but the following people should get their test done as soon as possible:

People who have Covid-19 symptoms.
People who have been referred to get their tests done by their physicians.
Persons who have been close to a covid-positive patient.
People who are travelling abroad. Countries such as the USA have made it mandatory to have a negative PCR test before you board the airplane.

How Long It Takes for Results to be delivered?

As discussed earlier, the timing of results depends upon the clinic and the type of test. It should also be noted that the time frame also depends upon the state where you are getting your testing done. For example, the County of Los Angeles takes 3-5 days to deliver the results.

Every other state has its own rules. You can check the Department of Health & Human Services website to check how long it will take the result to reach you in a particular state. Many retail pharmacies have also introduced drive-through testing that has made life a lot easier, for example, CVS drive-thru covid testing.

Types of Covid Tests

The two types of Covid testing are:

Antibody Test
Diagnostic Test

Antibody Test is the test in which it is checked if you have previously contracted Covid. This is not a diagnostic test, and that is why it will not identify if you still have covid or not. Your body makes antibodies in response to a particular pathogen.

Diagnostic Tests include molecular tests and antigen tests. A molecular test is commonly known as a PCR test. The problem with the PCR test is that it will only show you accurate results if done in the first five days of symptom appearance. The sample is taken through a swab from the nose or throat.

The antigen test is done to check the presence of a specific antigen in the body. Still, compared to the PCR test, this test is inaccurate and has shown false-negative in many cases.

What is Drive-through Testing?

This is a lot like the drive-through you see at fast food joints. You have to sit in the car while a health professional takes samples. This is quite efficient as you do not have to step out of the car, so you won’t contact anyone who has the disease.

As this type of testing is efficient, more and more are opting for this. That is why it is better if you make an appointment before reaching your location. CVS minute clinic covid testing is also providing people with drive-through services.

What to do if you do not have a Car?

Not everyone has a car so what to do if you use public transport? Many pharmacies, clinics, and laboratories, especially those that are government-facilitated, provide services for people who use public transport. Just call the health office and ask them for directions to the nearest clinic that also entertain public transport.

What Documents should you bring?

Your identification card or driving license might be needed for identification and registration. What other documents are needed? Call the clinic where you are going for the testing and ask them.

If you are bringing your kids with you, it is better that you bring their favourite toy or a book, so they do not get frustrated as the waiting time is long.

What will happen at the Testing Site?

Your documents will get checked, and your registration will be done. After that, the health care provider might check your doctor’s prescription if you have any. He will also ask you a few questions regarding your symptoms and your overall health.

After that, he will take a swab either from your nose or from your throat. The test will feel uncomfortable, but this will happen only for a short time. CVS covid testing CT will make sure that you are comfortable throughout the procedure.

Summary

Getting your covid test done is a necessity sometimes, for example when you have to travel. It is also essential when you feel any of the covid symptoms. It is better to be safe than being sorry. Get yourself tested before it’s late. There are many clinics and pharmacies providing testing for people. Do not procrastinate and get your test done as soon as possible.

July 26, 2021