Recently, the number of COVID-19 cases in Malaysia has set a record of more than 10,000 in a single day, sending the nation to a wave of panic. Now, even if you’re only dealing with the common cold or fever, it’s natural to worry about whether you have been exposed to COVID-19!
There is a wealth of information about swab tests online, but it can be tricky to discern which test will suit your needs best in terms of pricing, accuracy, and result releasing. To help you out, we made a digest of what you need to know about the entire process of COVID-19 testing in the country.
What is the difference between RT-PCR and RTK?
When it comes to the swab testing, the two most popular test methods are: RT-PCR (polymerase chain reaction) or RTK (rapid test kit). Both of them require samples drawn from the nasal or nasopharyngeal cavities, and where the sample came from usually affect the efficacy and accuracy of the test. RTK is generally used for rapid testing, and has an accuracy of 70%. If your test result is positive then you need to do RT-PCR to further confirm whether you are infected with the COVID virus. RT-PCR is comparably more expensive, but it remains to be the gold standard for COVID-19 testing.
How does the swab test work?
No matter where you have your swab test done, the procedure should be the same. You will fill out a form stating your personal information and medical records. The medical staff will use a 15cm long cotton swab to collect nasal fluid samples from your nasal cavity. This step takes just 5 to 10 seconds. You will get your result within 2-3 days. If the result is negative you will be notified by SMS, otherwise, you will receive a phone call and be guided to the next action. The period of waiting for the result can be distressing. Since the number of cases is increasing day by day, the number of people who are tested every day also increases, and the waiting time will be longer!
Is the swab test uncomfortable?
Seeing the long cotton swab may make you feel uneasy, and the procedure of collecting a sample from your nasal cavity can also make you feel uncomfortable, but it shouldn’t be painful and it definitely doesn’t last long. You should be fine right after the collection process.
Where can you get the swab test done?
Nowadays, not only hospitals, but certain health care service centers and clinics also provide swab testing services. If you are worried that there will be too many walk-ins for the swab test service or may break the social distance rules, drive-thru testing can be your choice to reduce the risk of infection during the test. Here is a list of clinics that provide RT-PCR testing in Selangor area for your reference:
COVID-19 Screening by Malaysia Liew Clinic: RTK Antigen or RT-PCR Test
Address: Liew Clinic, 10 Boulevard, B-2-18, Block B, Lebuhraya SPRINT, PJU 6A, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Business hours: Monday-Saturday 9:00am-7:00pm; closed on Sunday
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COVID-19 RT-PCR Nasal and Throat Swab Test at Lyfe Clinic
Address: LYFE CLINIC, 27, GF, Block A, 1, Jalan SS20/27, Damansara Intan, 47400 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Business hours: Monday-Saturday 9:00am-7:00pm; closed on Sunday
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COVID-19 PCR Nasal and Throat Swab Test by ParkCity Medical Centre
Address: No. 2, Jalan Intisari Perdana, Desa Parkcity, 52200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Business hours: Monday-Sunday 24 hours
COVID-19 PCR Nasal and Throat Swab Test by Subang Jaya Medical Centre
Address: No. 1, Jalan SS12/1A, Ss 12, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Business hours: Monday-Sunday 24 hours
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COVID-19 Nasal and Throat Swab Test at Ara Damansara Medical Centre
Address: Lot 2, Jalan Lapangan Terbang Subang, Seksyen U2, 40150 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia
Business hours: Monday-Sunday 24 hours
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The above hospitals and clinics provide both RTK Antigen or RT-PCR testing methods, and they also provide the results in a prompt manner. If you are doing RTK Antigen, you will find out the result in about 30-45 minutes. If you choose to do RT-PCR, you will get your result within 2-5 days. Obviously, if you are in a hurry, it is recommended to do RTK Antigen, and the results will be received on the same day!
How much does the swab test cost?
The cost of RT-PCT swab test ranges from RM290 to RM320, depending on the hospital or clinic you visit. In order to avoid crowds, you can now make an appointment online. It takes only 5 minutes from registration to completion of the swab test if you just arrive within the scheduled time. Besides, you may also inquire about home testing services if you are a person with limited mobility. The cost for home testing ranges from RM300 to RM500. Fees are determined by the testing methods and equipment you choose, to avoid paying additional fees, it is highly recommended to make an appointment online.
What should I do if the test result is positive?
If you receive a phone call informing you that your report is positive, there is nothing to panic about. Just call the Ministry of Health or report to MySejahtera immediately, and soon you will be arranged to be transported to a nearby isolation center. After their diagnosis, if the symptoms are mild, they will usually ask you to self-isolate at home. During the quarantine period at home, it is recommended for you to stay in your own room with a separate bathroom and toilet. If you are notified that you need to stay at the isolation center, prepare the following items before departure:
- Identity Card
- Mobile phone, charger, power bank
- Clothes (about 7-10 days)
- Water bottle and dry food
- Books, laptops, tablets, etc.
PKD and MOH will also notify people who have close contact with you, and request them to go for swab testing as well. Remember to tell the relevant personnel your contact history truthfully to prevent the virus from spreading to more people.
If you are diagnosed with COVID-19, remember to keep your mind and body calm, take more vitamins, and rest well to avoid serious illness. As long as we do our part, there is nothing to worry about COVID-19. We are at the stage where the government is actively vaccinating the citizens. If you have not registered for the vaccine, remember to register with MySejahtera and get your vaccine as soon as possible. Let us work together to achieve universal immunization and get rid of the virus! In the near future, we will be able to regain a free life and travel everywhere as usual!
Use the promo code below to enjoy your swab test at a lower price. Make an appointment, choose your available date, and process payment online is as simple as that!
Click here to check out more details of the Covid-19 test packages!
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