There are two types of COVID-19 tests currently available such as antibody tests and RT-PCR or known as swab tests.
RT-PCR test is a form of viral test that identifies the gene of the virus from samples taken whilst Rapid test identifies antibody formed in response to the presence of the virus. RT-PCR is currently the best test available to detect a viral infection in comparison to Rapid test as a negative result yield from the latter test cannot guarantee the person is free from the infection due to different time taken for antibodies to appear in the human body.
One who wishes to get tested for COVID-19 in Malaysia can do so at clinics or hospitals approved by the Ministry of Health, Malaysia (MOH). You can also book your test online.
Firstly, you will need to fill in forms to provide ample details to the centre. Next, nasopharyngeal swab will be done by inserting a 6th-inches cotton through the nostrils and throat. Sometimes, nasopharyngeal wash or aspirate, sputum, or tracheal aspiration may be taken too. The samples will be stored appropriately and will be tested within 24 to 72 hours. The results will be informed as soon as it has been yielded.
Common complaints from patients that had undergone the COVID-19 test include feeling uncomfortable during the procedure. Very rarely, the introduction of a 6th-inches swab may cause infection. Nevertheless, these side effects are temporary and manageable.
COVID-19 nasal-throat swab test procedure involves placing the swab into the mouth and through the nostrils into the palate. It is quick but may cause slight discomfort particularly when the swab is inserted through the nostrils into the palate.The other form of COVID-19 test which is RT-PCR test involves collecting a few drops of your blood sample from your fingertip. The test provider will quickly but gently prick your finger with a lancet during the procedure. It will cause slight discomfort temporarily.
In Malaysia the swab sample for RT-PCR test will be taken from your nasopharynx which will be through your nostrils and mouth. It is also called nasal and throat swabs.
The rapid test or antibody test using the covid-19 test kit will produce an instant result. However, the result for the RT-PCR or swab test will take a few days.
COVID-19 test kit should be handled by a medical professional only. If you need a test, please visit your nearest healthcare provider or book an online test.
No test is 100% accurate. The Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH) has found that the accuracy of RT-PCR for COVID-19 test is 98%. It is important to remember that wearing a mask outside and always maintaining social distancing until a vaccine for COVID-19 has been found. This is because there is a very small risk of false negative test results and you might infect others if you do not follow the Standard of Procedure (SOP) instructed from the Ministry of Health (MOH).
The procedure for COVID-19 test is pretty quick and simple. You will be done in less than 5 minutes. The antibody test or rapid test can produce an instant result. However, for RT-PCR test the result will only available after few days
The requirement for the test will be depending on the country you are visiting. If you are travelling within the country you are not required to get a test. You might need to do the test before or after reaching a foreign country.
Yes, you can. In order to do covid-19 tests in government hospitals, there are certain requirements that need to be fulfilled. In case you’re not eligible for it, you may opt for services offered by private hospitals or laboratories. You may also book an appointment online.
Covid-19 prices in Malaysia depend on where you get it done. If it was done under government, it is free. However, if it was done in private the price can range from RM 300-700. You can check the prices at the hospital or laboratories that offer this service.
This test would usually take within 38 hour to be processed before the result came out. However, it might take longer if there’s a lot of samples received. Nevertheless, the hospital or the laboratory where you did the test will call and inform you regarding the result.
