COVID-19, caused by SARS-CoV-2, was declared a global pandemic by the World Health Organization in 2019. The disease has affected millions worldwide and is known to cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. COVID-19 can lead to hospitalization and death in severe cases.

To help control the spread of COVID-19, comprehensive testing is non-negotiable. COVID-19 testing involves the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in the respiratory tract using various methods, including molecular tests like RT-PCR, antigen tests, and antibody tests. Our experience with the disease in the last 3 years has shown that the early detection and isolation of infected individuals can help limit the spread of the virus.

Apollo 24/7 offers various COVID-19 packages, which include a combination of tests and screenings, such as RT-PCR tests, rapid antigen tests, and consultations with doctors. The packages are designed to meet the varying needs of individuals, including those who require testing for travel or work, those who have COVID-19 symptoms, or those who need to monitor their health during the recovery phase.

With its range of COVID-19 tests and packages, Apollo 24/7 is committed to supporting the efforts to control the spread of COVID-19 and help affected individuals manage their symptoms and recover quickly.

Tests Included in COVID-19 Tests and Packages:

1. Covid-19 RT-PCR Test: The Covid-19 RTPCR test is considered the gold standard test for COVID-19 detection. This test detects the genetic material (RNA) of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in respiratory samples. Throat and nose swab samples are used for the test.
2. C-Reactive Protein (CRP): CRP is a protein synthesised by the liver in response to inflammation in the body. Elevated CRP levels can indicate an active infection or inflammation. A CRP test has been used routinely by medical experts for monitoring the health conditions of patients with COVID-19.
3. Sars-Cov-2 IgG Antibody Test: The Sars-Cov-2 IgG Antibody Test detects the presence of IgG antibodies in the blood that are produced in response to a COVID-19 infection. This test is not used for diagnosis but can indicate if an individual has been previously infected with COVID-19.
4. High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP): hs-CRP is a more sensitive test than the CRP test and can indicate low levels of inflammation, including that caused by COVID-19.
5. Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH): - Serum LDH is an enzyme found in many organs and tissues, including the lungs. Elevated LDH levels can indicate lung damage, which is common in severe cases of COVID-19.
6. Interleukin-6: Interleukin-6 is a cytokine produced in response to inflammation in the body. Elevated interleukin-6 levels may indicate severe inflammation potentially caused by COVID-19.
7. Sars-Cov-2 IgM Antibody: The Sars-Cov-2 IgM Antibody Test detects the presence of IgM antibodies in the blood that are produced in the early stages of a COVID-19 infection.
8. Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time (APTT): APTT is a blood test that measures the time it takes for blood to clot. Elevated APTT levels can indicate a higher risk of clotting, a common outcome of COVID-19.
9. Fibrinogen Test: Fibrinogen is a protein that is involved in blood clotting. Elevated fibrinogen levels can indicate a higher risk of clotting, which is a common complication of COVID-19.
10. Covid 19 RTPCR With Home Collection: This is a comprehensive test package, which tests for 8 parameters, including SARS-CoV-2, SARS-CoV-2 OMICRON (suspected), RdRp Gene CT value, N-Gene CT value, and ORF1ab gene expression. With these tests, you get an idea of the potential variant that has caused COVID-19 symptoms as well as the CT value, which can be an indicator of the stage of infection.

Why a COVID-19 Test or Package May Be Necessary for You?

COVID-19 tests and packages are important for diagnosing and managing the spread of the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2. These tests are beneficial in identifying infected individuals who may be asymptomatic or have mild symptoms and can help prevent the spread of the virus to others.

PCR tests are the gold standard for diagnosing COVID-19, while rapid antigen tests can help detect active infections in individuals with symptoms. However, contrary to popular belief, COVID-19 detection tests are not the only tests necessary for managing COVID-19. Tests that detect the levels of inflammatory markers, like CRP, are necessary to evaluate the condition of a patient with COVID-19.

Thus, if you are experiencing symptoms of COVID-19, such as cough, cold, headache, a loss of smell or taste, and mild to severe diarrhoea, do not delay testing. Booking a test with a reliable healthcare service provider, like Apollo 24/7, is the first step towards protecting yourself and the people around you from the grapples of a disease as contagious as COVID-19.