Here is how the test works.
Covid-19 is caused by the coronavirus (called SARS-CoV-2) which is a RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) virus. A swab is used to take a sample from the nose or mouth and then sent to the lab. The enzyme (reverse-transcriptase) is used to convert any viral RNA present, convert it into a DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) copy, and PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) is used to make multiple copies of this viral DNA copy. A genetic probe is then used to search the DNA copies for gene sequences that are unique to this coronavirus. If the genetic probe finds the sequence then this is a positive test for Covid-19.
The lab will text you your test results usually within 24 hours once they receive your specimen but, it can take 48-72 hours