CBS reports that as demand for COVID-19 tests grows, choosing and using different types of tests can be confusing.<br />PCR tests are reportedly considered to be the "gold standard" when it comes to spotting SARS-CoV-2 infections.<br />In comparison, antigen tests, otherwise known as lateral flow tests, are reportedly less sensitive than their PCR counterparts. <br />However, antigen tests are a popular alternative, as they can be taken at home and return quicker results. <br />According to CBS News, antigen tests work best in symptomatic people within the first week of infection.<br />Last year, one review estimated that antigen tests may only spot about 75% of cases that a PCR test would detect.<br />"PCR tests are still by far the best test and those are the tests that most hospitals are using to identify COVID-19 patients." Dr. Emily Volk, president of the College of American Pathologists, via 'CBS Mornings'.<br />Currently, antigen tests remain in short supply and can be difficult to find at many stores or online retailers.<br />CBS reports that starting this month, the White House plans to offer a website that will distribute free at-home tests.<br />The plan reportedly will require health insurers to reimburse the cost of purchasing at-home tests. <br />"The appropriate tool in this pandemic to answer the question, 'Do I need to isolate? Am I infectious and a risk to my neighbors?' is using a rapid antigen test because it only stays positive as long as you are infectious." Dr. Michael Mina, Chief science officer at eMed, via 'CBS Mornings'
