COVID EDUCATION:

What are the symptoms of COVID-19?

Primarily fever, cough, and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing but may include chills, muscle pain, headache, sore throat, new loss of taste or smell, and overall flu-like symptoms.

What is the difference between the viral and antibody SAR-CoV-2 test?

Viral / Molecular Test

Viral test check samples from your respiratory system (such as swabs of the inside of the nose) to tell you if you currently have an infection with SARS-CoV-2, not for any other viruses or pathogens. Wyoming Health Fairs now offers rapid antigen and rapid PCR testing options!

Antibody / Serology Test

Antibody tests are completed by obtaining one vial of blood sent to the laboratory to identify individual who have been exposed to the virus. This test has been authorized only for detecting the presence of antibodies against SAR-CoV-2, not for any other viruses or pathogens.

VIRAL TEST SPECIFICS:

Does WHF offer different types of viral testing?

Yes. Wyoming Health Fairs now offers both rapid antigen and PCR tests

When should you opt for the antigen test?

Rapid antigen tests perform best when the person is tested in the early stages of infection with SARS-CoV-2 when viral load is generally highest. They also may be informative in diagnostic testing situations in which the person has a known exposure to a confirmed case of COVID-19.

When should you opt for the PCR test?

PCR testing may be required prior to surgery or air travel. This test actually detects RNA (or genetic material) that is specific to the virus and can detect the virus within days of infection, even those who have no symptoms.

How are the tests performed?

For both tests, the technician conducting the test will insert a cotton swab into each nasal cavity and gently twirl it around for a few seconds. The swab will collect a sample of needed secretions for analysis.

Who are the manufacturers of the viral tests?

For the rapid testing, samples are ran through the Quidel Sofia 2 system at the Wyoming Health Fairs location.

For the PCR test, samples are ran through the Cepheid system at the Wyoming Health Fairs location.

Is this test approved by the FDA?

The United States FDA has made all testing available under an emergency access mechanism call and Emergency Use Authorization (EUA).

What is the sensitivity of each test?

Rapid Test = This test has a 96.7% sensitivity rate.

PCR Test = This test has a 99.8% sensitivity rate.

When will my results be available?

Rapid Test = Results will be available within 15-30 minutes, depending upon demand.

PCR Test = Results will be available within 1 hour, depending upon demand

How will I get my results?

Results can be picked up at the Casper WHF Office and Rapid PCR results can be emailed.

What are the chances that I might have a false-negative test result?

It’s important to point out that a negative test result may occur in a patient, who is in the early stages of the infection and shows no symptoms. As the amount of virus in the body increases to detectable levels, repeated testing may be required to confirm the initial results.

Will positive COVID-19 results be reported to local and state public health entities?

Yes. Positive COVID-19 results will be reported to the appropriate health agency in accordance with applicable requirements. The State Department of Health where you reside will notify you of positive results.

WHF INFORMATION:

What is the price for the viral tests?

Rapid Antigen Test: $75

Rapid PCR Test: $95

This pricing reflects all laboratory and collection fees. Wyoming Health Fairs does not charge an office visit. This does not reflect the costs of treatment by any outside physicians.

Is this billable through insurance, or self-pay only?

WHF only accepts self-payment for this test. Regulations regarding payment reimbursement continue to evolve. Please contact your insurance company directly for further information regarding your individual plan.

Does WHF offer antibody testing?

Yes. Antibody testing may also be completed at WHF without a physician referral during our regular blood screening hours. Antibody testing will not be available during viral testing.

Do I need a referral by a physician for testing?

No, you do not need a referral from your doctor to be tested.