To prevent the spread of Coronavirus (COVID-19) within the general population, Scotland has adopted the “test, trace, isolate, and support” policy. To prevent a return into lockdown and prepare for a new normal, it will allow us to gradually remove the constraints that have been suppressing the virus with highly accurate and effective PCR testing in Edinburgh.
What Is A PCR Test?
A PCR test is often conducted using a method called Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), which quickly replicates viral-related DNA in the millions to billions. If even trace quantities of this genetic material are present in a sample, it will be discovered. Thus, molecular/PCR assays are very sensitive and specific.
A positive test nearly never fails to detect the presence of SARS-CoV-2. Tests may be performed on nose or throat swabs, as well as saliva samples. The results are carefully analysed in order to confirm or deny the presence of a virus.
However, since molecular or PCR testing are virtually exclusively conducted in specialist laboratories, the procedure is quite slow. Results from outpatient testing are seldom available in less than a day and may take considerably longer.
What’s In A Typical PCR Test Kit?
Home test kits contain:
- Swabs
- Vials containing a small amount of liquid – this must remain in the tube until you are ready to use it for testing
- a clear zip-lock bag with an absorbent pad
- a bag with a QR code
- a box
How To Isolate Yourself
Staying at home and not going to work, school, public locations, or using public transportation is self-isolation. You should not go out to buy food or other essentials. It would be best if you stayed at home.
While you are isolating yourself, you should do the following:
- stay at least 2 metres (6 feet, or three steps) away from other people in your home
- stay in a different room from other people in your home, ensuring it is well-ventilated
- sleep alone in a separate bed
- stay away from locations where others are present (sitting room, kitchen, bathroom)
- avoid using your kitchen while others are present
- use a separate towel to dry your hands after you wash them; and
- clean your kitchen, bathroom and other surfaces throughout the house every day
You should always:
- Frequently use soap and water to thoroughly clean your hands for 20 seconds, then use an alcohol-based sanitizer if your hands aren’t unclean.
- Put disposable tissues in the trash, and
- Keep your hands away from your face, particularly your mouth, nose, and eyelids, while you’re coughing or sneezing.
Is It Possible To Obtain PCR Testing At Edinburgh Airport?
At Edinburgh Airport, PCR testing is provided in addition to fit-to-fly certificates being issued for applicants and travellers who require a PCR test from the general population.
PCR tests in Edinburgh, like the pharmacies and other services mentioned above, vary in price depending on if you need them as evidence of admission to another nation and how quickly you need them. Therefore, it is important that you take steps in order to ensure that you are suitably prepared for undertaking testing and isolating if necessary after you have been tested.
Conclusion
Everyone in Scotland has a part to play in reducing the overall spread of the virus. Everybody should be prepared to self-isolate for ten days in order to safeguard others after close contact – whether with someone we know well or with someone we have only met once – has been diagnosed with COVID-19.
Effective PCR and lateral flow testing systems which have been implemented should help people’s health and government authorities to effectively reduce the spread of the virus and the effect it can have on life as we know it.
