COVID-19

Covid-19 Testing

With people returning to work and travelling abroad, PCR testing to rule out COVID-19 infection remains important for many. We offer COVID-19 PCR and antibody testing for reasons such as travel, returning to work or school, or simply for peace of mind.

The Price

Coronavirus testing costs £140, including your consultation, testing and interpretation of results, with a test report or certificate issued. We test seven days a week, with pricing matched to other local clinics.

Certain countries require a “fit to travel” certificate, which needs an additional doctor’s examination — please contact us if you require this.

PCR Swab Test

COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Its genetic information is RNA, and the PCR technique detects the presence of viral RNA — meaning the test can show whether you currently have an active infection. A sample is taken from your throat and nose during the test.

The PCR test is 100% specific and 98% sensitive — a highly specific test correctly identifies everyone who does not have the disease, while a highly sensitive test correctly identifies everyone who does.

Antibody Test

Most patients who recover from coronavirus produce antibodies — initially IgM, followed by IgG during recovery. Detecting IgG antibodies shows whether a person has previously been infected with SARS-CoV-2. Testing should be undertaken 17 days or more after exposure or the onset of symptoms, as it can take from a few days up to two weeks (or longer) for the immune system to produce a detectable antibody response.

The antibody test is 100% specific and 97.5% sensitive.

Symptoms

Fever
Tiredness
Dry cough
Difficulty breathing
Loss of taste or smell
Bowel upset

In some cases, symptoms can develop into severe respiratory illness — evidence shows that fatality rates increase with age, body weight and the presence of underlying illness.

The Testing Process

We are open seven days a week and will try to accommodate testing at your convenience. A clinician will take either a venous blood sample or a swab of your nose and mouth, depending on the test. Results typically take up to 72 hours to return once received by the laboratory, though this is subject to change depending on current laboratory demand.

Your results are forwarded as a certificate of testing with a full explanation — our clinicians will call or video call you if your result is positive.

Corporate & Repeat Testing

Get in touch if you wish to arrange testing for your business — we can offer a corporate discount depending on your numbers, plus offsite testing with full PPE compliance.

Should you wish to be tested a second time, we offer a 10% discount on the consultation and test.

Book Your Covid-19 Test

Available 7 days a week — call us on 01483 452 555 (Guildford) or 01372 642 555 (Esher) to book.