The COVID-19 PCR test is billed to your insurance by the outside lab and results are typically available in 2-4 days. There is a $39 collection charge for insured patients. Self-pay price is $139 to cover the lab fee.

A Quidel Rapid Antigen COVID-19 test (results in 15 minutes) is available for $100.

Testing for COVID-19 Variants in Tampa, FL

Doctor's gloved hand holding a pen and writing COVID-19 new variants

As the COVID-19 pandemic rages on, genetic variants of the novel coronavirus have been emerging and circulating around the world. This is to be expected, as all viruses continually mutate (it is also one of the main reasons you need an annual flu shot). Mutations occur when a virus’ genes undergo random “copying errors” when the virus replicates. Sometimes, a copying error can alter the virus’ surface proteins (antigens).

Viral antigen changes are significant. Why? After the body’s immune system is exposed to a virus, it can learn to recognize the virus’ antigens and launch an attack against future exposures, effectively protecting against reinfection. However, any immunity acquired to a certain strain of a virus may be ineffective against a new, mutated strain.

The Increasing Importance of Reliable COVID-19 Testing

In light of the newly developing COVID-19 variants, it is now more important than ever to be vigilant and promptly seek COVID-19 testing if you believe you may have been exposed to someone infected with the novel coronavirus, or if you are experiencing symptoms, such as a low-grade fever and a persistent cough.

South Tampa Immediate Care is a trusted source of COVID-19 testing in Tampa, Florida. To help keep our patients as safe and healthy as possible, we’re proud to offer the latest coronavirus testing options, including the “gold standard” polymerase chain reaction (PCR) COVID-19 test, with results typically available within 2-4 days. Additionally, after talking with our doctor, some of our patients also opt to receive a rapid antigen COVID-19 test, with results typically available in approximately 15 minutes.

If You Test Positive for COVID-19, How Do You Know if You Have a Variant?

Although both the PCR COVID-19 test and the rapid antigen COVID-19 test can detect COVID-19 variants, neither test can identify the precise strain of the virus present. In general, however, the symptoms and treatment of COVID-19 are the same—as are the steps recommended to prevent its spread—regardless of its strain. Therefore, if you are infected with COVID-19, you don’t necessarily have to know what strain you have.

With that said, information about COVID-19 variants is important for public health purposes. Researchers can obtain this information through genetic sequencing, a complex process that is much more involved than standard COVID-19 testing. Genetic sequencing is performed on a small sample of COVID-19 specimens to identify the specific strain.

If you would like more information, contact or visit South Tampa Immediate Care in Tampa, FL. Our knowledgeable and friendly team is here to answer any questions you may have about COVID-19 variants, testing, symptoms, or treatment. We’ll also be pleased to explain the steps we’re taking to ensure the safety of our patients and staff during these unprecedented times.