The two test types and our basic back-to-school tools

There is so much we are still learning about COVID-19. My goal is to give you as much useful information as possible. Today I want to focus on different types of tests. There are two types of COVID-19 tests: diagnostic and antibody. Diagnostic tests include the PCR and the antigen test. Both test for infection. The PCR test, which can be an oral or nasal swab, is the preferred test because it is most accurate. The antigen test, also known as the rapid test, is not as accurate as the PCR test but results usually are available in an hour or less. Antibody tests are not considered diagnostic testing, but through blood samples, they can show if a person has had COVID-19 at some point. “Antigen test” and “antibody test” may sound similar, but they do very different things!

Diagnostic tests are available free to anyone in Los Angeles County. Families, faculty and staff have been tested that way. If you or your daughter need to be tested because of feeling sick or being exposed to someone who has COVID-19, contact your primary care physician or covid19.lacounty.gov/testing to schedule an appointment. If your daughter is tested, please contact me so I can follow up with you; our conversation will be confidential. If you or your daughter tests positive, it’s important to contact me so I can follow up. 

Public health officials announced that we’ve made “a great deal of progress” lowering our numbers since July. But recently there’s been a slight increase in the number of cases. Many of us are discouraged, tired and asking, “What can we do to get back to school?” We can use the tools we know that work: 
  1. wear face coverings
  2. stay physically distanced
  3. avoid crowds
  4. wash our hands frequently.
We have the tools to decrease the spread of the virus—let’s use them.

Let’s all stay safe and healthy!
 
Cathy Cota RN, BSN, PHN
 
Avoid the 3 Cs: crowds, confined areas, close contact
Remember the 3 Ws: wear a face covering, wash your hands, watch your distance
Practice the 3 Rs: relationships, routines, reassurance
back
Established in 1931, Mayfield Senior School in Pasadena, CA is a Catholic, independent, college preparatory school for young women grades 9-12. Noted for its rigorous academic program, which includes 28 Advanced Placement and Honors courses, Mayfield’s curriculum is underscored by a philosophy of educating the “whole child,” which also encourages commitment to and excellence in the arts, athletics, community service and spiritual growth. The nurturing environment at Mayfield Senior School allows each student to flourish in an atmosphere of personal attention.