Frequently Asked Questions

Viruses constantly change through mutation and sometimes these mutations result in a new variant of the virus. Some variants emerge and disappear while others persist. New variants will continue to emerge. Health Canada, CDC and other public health organizations monitor all variants of the virus that causes COVID-19 in Canada, the United States and globally.

New variants of the virus are expected to occur. Taking measures to reduce the spread of infection, including getting a COVID-19 vaccine, are the best ways to slow the emergence of new variants.

Antigen tests are an effective way to screen for Covid-19 including existing variants.

Depending on the test device, sample collection method and technique, and stage of patient infectiousness, rapid tests can be less sensitive than PCR tests.

This has led to a common misconception that rapid tests are not a reliable way to screen for Covid-19.

The sensitivity rate of the rapid antigen tests authorized by Health Canada ranges from over 80% to over 97% and they can be a highly effectively tool to combat the spread of Covid-19.

If you receive a positive result on an Antigen test, please contact your primary healthcare provider and your local Public Health Unit. You can also consult resources on http://covid19.ontario.ca including finding an assessment centre close to you for a confirmatory PCR test from public health.

A rapid antigen test can return a result in about 10-30 minutes, depending on the test device and manufacturer.

For most international destinations, you need a report or travel certificate provided by a independent laboratory or clinic. To book this test at one of our clinic locations, please visit https://www.swiftclinics.ca.

An Antigen test is also often referred to as a Lateral Flow device or a Viral Antigen test.

If your organization is interested in rapid testing solutions, contact us today to learn how rapid testing and tracing can help protect your workplace from the risks of COVID-19. Please visit https://www.swiftclinics.ca/home/contact/ to contact us today.