Rapid antigen test or PCR to find Omicron, a new variant of the coronavirus that causes COVID-19?

Rapid tests are simpler than PCR and most rapid tests only look for one protein of the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. If mutations in that protein change the shape of the protein, there is a chance that the rapid test will not detect the virus. PCR tests used in Iceland look for at least two genes, precisely to reduce the risk of not detecting variants with mutations at key sites in those genes.

In order to be as safe as possible in diagnosing those who are ill with COVID-19, it is extremely important that those with symptoms go for a PCR-test and not a rapid antigen test. Self-tests are also not recommended.

The Chief Epidemiologist