ADVERTISEMENTVergeire cited the three existing methodologies for COVID-19 in the country which includes the RT-PCR test, antigen test and rapid antibody test. Meanwhile, Vergeire explained that rapid antibody tests detect presence or absence of antibodies against the virus present in the patient’s serum or blood sample. How samples are collected, analyzedFor RT/PCR tests, health workers collect swab samples from patients. The specimens from antibody tests and antigen tests are then sent to a laboratory or healthcare setting for evaluation. Similar to the antigen test, rapid antibody test still needs to be complemented with the swab test for RT/PCR.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer August 20, 2020 14:14 UTC