SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Real-Time PCR (Qualitative) Test: Booking, Price, and Results
About SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Real-Time PCR (Qualitative) Test: Booking, Price, and Results
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Also Known As | COVID-19 RT-PCR test, SARS-CoV-2 RNA PCR, coronavirus PCR test, COVID NAAT |
| Sample Type | Nasopharyngeal/oropharyngeal (throat) swabs |
| Fasting Required | No fasting required |
| Report Time | Within 24 hours |
| Recommended For | All ages, anyone with COVID-19 symptoms, known exposure, or individuals who require a COVID-19 test result for travel, employment, educational, or institutional purposes |
| Price | Starting at ₹450 |
What is a COVID-19 Real-Time PCR Test?
The COVID-19 real-time PCR test detects the genetic material of the coronavirus in a swab sample taken from the nose and throat. It is widely regarded as the gold-standard method for confirming an active COVID-19 infection. It is also called the COVID-19 RT-PCR test or coronavirus PCR test. Doctors prescribe this test for patients showing symptoms, those with known exposure to an infected person, or individuals who need a COVID-19 test result for travel or institutional purposes.
What Does a COVID-19 RT-PCR Test Measure?
This test uses a molecular technique called real-time polymerase chain reaction to detect and amplify the genetic material (RNA) of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in your sample. The following components are analysed during the test:
| Component | What It Measures |
|---|---|
| SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA | Confirms whether the virus's genetic material is present in your sample. |
| Target genes (N, E, ORF1ab) | Specific regions of the viral genome used to identify SARS-CoV-2. |
| Ct value (cycle threshold) | Indicates the number of PCR cycles required to detect viral RNA. Lower Ct values generally indicate a higher amount of viral RNA in the sample. |
Why is a COVID-19 RT-PCR Test Done?
Doctors order this test for several reasons, from confirming an infection to meeting travel requirements.
Common Symptoms That May Require This Test
The following symptoms are common reasons a doctor may recommend this test:
- Fever or chills
- Persistent cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Loss of taste or smell
- Fatigue and body aches
- Sore throat or congestion
- Headache
Conditions This Test Can Help Detect
This test can help identify or rule out the following:
- Active SARS-CoV-2 infection
- COVID-19 as a cause of respiratory illness, helping to distinguish it from other infections such as influenza.
- Infection in individuals identified through contact tracing or exposure to confirmed cases.
- Requirement for clearance to travel, return to work, or attend an institution.
How to Prepare and What to Expect
No special preparation is needed for this test, but a few simple steps will help ensure an accurate result.
Do You Need to Fast?
No fasting is required for this test. You can eat and drink normally beforehand.
Practical Tips Before Your Test
Keep the following points in mind before your sample is collected:
- Avoid eating, smoking, or chewing gum for at least 30 minutes before swab collection.
- You are required to bring a valid government-issued photo ID for identity verification.
- Bring the COVID test requisition form (COVID TRF) and your contact number, as these are mandatory for processing.
- Inform the healthcare professional about any medications you are currently taking or any recent vaccinations.
- Try to get tested 3 to 5 days after exposure or as soon as symptoms appear, as testing too early may produce a false-negative result.
Step-by-Step Procedure
Here is what to expect during the test procedure:
- A trained healthcare professional will ask you to sit upright and tilt your head slightly back.
- A sterile swab is gently inserted into the nasal cavity to collect a nasopharyngeal sample, reaching toward the back of the nose.
- A second swab is used to collect an oropharyngeal (throat) sample by gently swabbing the back of the throat.
- Both swabs are placed into a viral transport medium (VTM) tube, which keeps the sample stable during transit.
- The tube is labelled and stored at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius before being sent to the laboratory.
- In the laboratory, real-time RT-PCR is used to detect and amplify SARS-CoV-2 RNA (after reverse transcription). Some assays use TaqMan probe-based detection systems.
Factors That Can Affect Accuracy
Several factors can influence the reliability of your result:
- Collecting the sample too early after exposure, before the virus has multiplied sufficiently.
- Improper swab technique during collection.
- Contamination or damage to the sample during transport.
- Inadequate storage temperature.
- Very low levels of viral RNA in the sample.
Understanding Your COVID-19 RT-PCR Test Results
Your result will be reported as either detected (positive) or not detected (negative). In some cases, an inconclusive result may be reported, which may require a repeat test. Always discuss your result with a qualified doctor.
| Result | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Not detected (negative) | SARS-CoV-2 RNA was not found in your sample; no active infection was detected. |
| Detected (positive) | SARS-CoV-2 RNA was found; an active COVID-19 infection was confirmed. |
| Inconclusive | The result could not be clearly determined; a repeat test may be advised. |
Disclaimer: These ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your age, health history, and other factors. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised medical advice.
Results During Special Conditions
The timing of your test and your health status can affect how reliable your result is:
Nasopharyngeal samples are generally more sensitive than throat swabs alone. The further you are from symptom onset, the lower the viral load may be, which can reduce the chance of detecting infection even if you are infected.
Patients with weakened immune systems may have prolonged or atypical viral shedding patterns, which can affect test sensitivity in some cases. If you are immunocompromised and have symptoms, inform your doctor so they can consider repeat or additional testing if required.
How to Maintain Healthy Levels
These are general wellness steps that can help reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection:
- Stay up to date with recommended COVID-19 vaccinations.
- Practise regular handwashing and follow respiratory hygiene, such as covering your mouth when coughing.
- Follow current public health guidance if you test positive or are exposed to a confirmed case.
Lupin Diagnostics SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Qualitative Real-Time PCR Test Price and Home Collection
The COVID-19 RT-PCR test is available at Lupin Diagnostics starting at ₹450, with home sample collection offered across multiple cities. The following table shows city-wise pricing:
| City | Approximate Price (₹) |
|---|---|
| BHOPAL | 450 |
| CHENNAI | 500 |
| HYDERABAD | 450 |
| KOLKATA | 450 |
| NAVI MUMBAI | 450 |
| PUNE | 450 |
Disclaimer: Prices are indicative and may vary by location. Please confirm the current price at the time of booking.
How to Book
- Select the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) real-time PCR (qualitative) test on the Lupin Diagnostics website.
- Choose your city and preferred time slot.
- Opt for home sample collection by a certified phlebotomist, or visit your nearest Lupin Diagnostics centre.
- Receive your report via email or WhatsApp within 1 day.
Home Collection
Lupin Diagnostics offers COVID-19 RT-PCR test home collection across cities, allowing a trained professional to collect your swab sample at your doorstep. All samples are processed in NABL-accredited laboratories to ensure accurate results. Your digital report is shared securely via email or WhatsApp once ready.
Frequently Asked Questions
The COVID-19 RT-PCR test detects the virus's genetic material and is considered the most accurate method for diagnosing an active infection. A rapid antigen test is faster but less sensitive, meaning it is more likely to miss an infection, particularly in the early stages. RT-PCR is the preferred test for travel clearance and official documentation.
The best time to take the COVID-19 RT-PCR test is 3 to 5 days after exposure to a confirmed case, or as soon as symptoms develop. Testing too early may produce a false-negative result because the virus may not yet be present in detectable levels.
The nasopharyngeal swab may cause a brief sensation of pressure or mild discomfort as it is inserted into the nasal cavity. This feeling passes quickly. Throat swabbing is generally well-tolerated by most people.
You are required to bring a valid government-issued photo ID for identity verification, along with the COVID test requisition form (COVID TRF) and your contact number. Please ensure these are ready before your appointment.
No, vaccination does not affect the result of a COVID-19 RT-PCR test. The test detects active viral RNA in your sample, which is unrelated to your vaccination status.
A positive result means active infection has been confirmed. You should isolate yourself, inform close contacts, and consult a doctor promptly. Follow the current public health guidelines on isolation duration and care. Do not self-medicate without medical advice.
Yes, an inconclusive result can occur when viral RNA levels are very low or if there was an issue with sample collection or processing. In such cases, your doctor may recommend a repeat COVID-19 test to get a clear result.
SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) Real-Time PCR (Qualitative) Test: Booking, Price, and Results
