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COVID Testing

Lehigh Valley Genomics Our Services COVID Testing

Lehigh Valley Genomics

Laboratory Services & COVID Testing located in Bethlehem, PA

COVID-19 is an unpredictable virus that affects people of all ages and causes a range of health problems. Some people don’t get sick, others experience long-lasting symptoms, and for too many, the disease leads to death. When you need COVID testing, the experienced team at Lehigh Valley Genomics offers accurate RT-PCR testing that produces results in 48-72 hours. Walk-ins are welcome, so you don’t need an appointment. But if you have any questions, call the office in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, or connect online.

COVID Testing Q&A

When might I need COVID-19 testing?

You should get tested for COVID-19 if you:

  • Have symptoms of illness
  • Were exposed to someone with the virus
  • Traveled to a high-risk area
  • Attended a high-risk event
  • Need to show test results (e.g., for travel, work, school, or other places)

A high-risk area refers to places where transmission is high (lots of people are getting COVID-19) and vaccination rates are low. A high-risk event involves large crowds who aren’t wearing masks or weren’t required to show proof of vaccination or a negative test result.

However, many variables affect your risk of developing COVID-19. Whether or not you’re fully vaccinated is the most important factor. Other variables include the viral variant you were exposed to, how close you were to the person, how long you were exposed, and whether you were inside or outside.

 

What symptoms indicate I need COVID testing?

COVID-19 causes symptoms such as:

  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Dry cough
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Loss of smell or taste
  • Muscle aches
  • Headache
  • Sore throat
  • Skin rash
  • Discoloration of fingers and toes
  • Congestion or runny nose
  • Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea

Some people also experience neurological symptoms such as dizziness, confusion, and vision changes.

 

What type of COVID-19 test do I receive?

Lehigh Valley Genomics performs COVID testing using a test called the real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction test (RT-PCR). The RT-PCR detects genetic material from SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.

To perform your RT-PCR test, Lehigh Valley Genomics inserts a swab through your nose and takes a sample from the upper part of your throat (just behind your nose). The swab immediately goes to their lab, and your results are ready in 48-72 hours.

We now only sequence for reference testing or upon specific request. Lehigh Valley Genomics can also use the same sample to test for influenza A and B at the same time you get COVID-19 testing.

 

Does COVID-19 testing show the variant?

Viruses commonly create new variants (strains). Some SARS-CoV-2 variants are more contagious and cause more severe illness than the original virus.

If you have a positive RT-PCR test, Lehigh Valley Genomics can perform additional testing called next-generation sequencing to identify the variant.

The team asks if you want sequencing when they take your nasal swab. The information about your variant is available in 5-7 days after they complete your RT-PCR test.

 

How can I get COVID testing?

Lehigh Valley Genomics welcomes walk-ins for COVID-19 testing. Be sure to bring your ID and insurance information. If you don’t have insurance, they charge a special cash rate.

 

How do I get my COVID-19 testing results?

Lehigh Valley Genomics sends results to your primary care physician. However, you can also request your results directly from the lab.

To learn more about COVID-19 testing, call Lehigh Valley Genomics, or connect with them online today.

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