Pcr Versus Antigen

[smurfchops]

What is the difference? Told we can take either before a cruise. Is the Antigen different from the lateral flow you do at home?

[Atheist]

I think that lateral flow and antigen are the same. I may be wrong.

[Sqad]

Both tests detect the antigen ( which is the virus or bits of the virus.)
In my opinion the lateral flow is less sensitive than the PCR.

Take your pick or the one advised by the Cruise Line.

[Buenchico]

PCR tests are more accurate than rapid antigen tests (a.k.a. lateral flow tests). They're also more expensive and take longer because the samples need to be processed by a laboratory.

As I read it, the cruise line is saying that they're perfectly happy for you to take the quicker and cheaper test but, if you happen to have taken a PCR one (say for a different purpose), they're equally happy to accept the result of that test (as it's more accurate anyway).

https://ec.europa.eu/research-and-innovation/en/horizon-magazine/pcr-antigen-and-antibody-five-things-know-about-coronavirus-tests

[jno]

the way I heard it, if the C line appears, that's Cruise Line. But if the T line shows up, it's Tramp-steamer Line.

This may be incorrect, though.

[smurfchops]

They want me to take the test the day before sailing, is that long enough with a PCR?

[Buenchico]

^^^ It's a bit tight but the exact answer to your question depends upon which test provider you use (and, where appropriate, which of their services you choose).

For example, with Boots' in-store testing, PCR test results are provided "typically within 48 hours":
https://www.boots.com/services/covid-19-testing/covid-19-testing-service

This company provides a result "next day, by 8pm" with their standard PCR test but they offer an option of a result by 10pm on the same day, as long as the test is taken before 10.30am, for an additional payment:
https://walkin-clinic.co.uk/coronavirus