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Health & Wellness NewsCOVID-19 News

Rapid testing for COVID-19 vs. PCR tests: When to use them

COVID-19 rapid test kit
At-home COVID-19 test kits like this are available for sale but tough to find as demand soars nationwide. (AP Photo | Ted Shaffrey)

BETHLEHEM, Pa. - Across the Lehigh Valley and the nation, COVID-19 rapid tests are flying off store shelves, as virus case counts continue to climb.

A local doctor says those quick-turnaround tests may not always be the best option.

Dr. Michael Carnathan owns Arrow Primary Care in Bethlehem and does a lot of curbside testing at his practice.

He says he uses both the rapid and classic PCR tests. Carnathan says the decision to use one or the other is on a case-by-case basis, but overall the rapid tests aren't always accurate. 

He explains “the rapid tests are really good for those who've had a known exposure in about the last five to seven days and are showing symptoms.

“So they're there for more confirmation. They're not a great screening tool. I mean, they do have some accuracy, but it's not 100%.”

Carnathan says the rapid tests are better than nothing for those looking to get tested before a family gathering, but he still recommends keeping get-togethers small and using social distancing practices.