Antigen and PCR test; what is the difference? This article will explain 3 basic differences between them.
Antigen test Bali and PCR test Bali are examinations that have been used in Indonesia to see a person’s condition, the spread of the Covid-19 outbreak is one of the main factors in the importance of carrying out an antigen test or PCR test.
These two tests were once one of the requirements for entering or leaving one city for another. In Indonesia, this provision has been in effect since the entry of covid-19, so this effort is required to prevent the outbreak’s spread. However, this epidemic began to subside over time, so the government no longer needed PCR and antigens to enter. It was enough to show proof of vaccinations, especially the third one or booster for each visitor.
The rule that does not require a test has also been implemented in Bali, a city that has become one of a favorite destinations for visitors around the world; the regulation states that visitors are not required to show evidence of antigen if they have carried out a booster vaccination or the third vaccine in the rules.
But what if the visitor has not completed the third vaccine? Of course, this question will arise for visitors, and the regulation also explains that if you have not completed the booster vaccine, you must attach evidence of the test. Before that, we must first understand this test.
They are functionally the same but differ slightly in how they are taken, the time require,d and the costs involved. The difference between the two tests is.
3 Difference Between Antigen & PCR Test
- Examination result accuracy
- Inspection time
- Costs to be incurred
These differences have advantages and disadvantages to each other. The application of this antigen several big cities in Indonesia, such as Bali, Jakarta and others, have the same rules regarding the application of the test. Before discussing, it is better to know the difference between the two tests below,
1. Examination Result Accuracy
Many people question the accuracy of the examination results between the two tests, which is the more accurate result. Still, according to experts, PCR-based examinations tend to be more accurate than antigens. This is due to different retrieval. PCR-based examinations reach 95 per cent accuracy, while the antigen test comes 70-80 per cent.
2. Inspection time
Examining time for these two tests is different; antigens tend to be faster, which only takes about 15 to 30 minutes. As for PCR, the examination will be carried out in 2 to 3 hours and up to 1 day or more, but please note the PCR examination takes longer because it requires more samples, plus the lack of examination tools. Therefore, it is very reasonable if you have to wait a long time.
3. Costs to be incurred.
The costs that must be incurred to carry out tests are very varied, but antigens tend to be cheaper than PCR because the accuracy of the results is more effective.
Do you need an antigen test in Bali?
As we know, Bali is the best tourist destination visited by many tourists around the world. Bali will undoubtedly have many visitors every week as one of the cities that becomes a tourist destination. In this case, the government, of course, imposes several rules for visitors.
However, the current rule that requires visitors to carry out a Balinese antigen swab examination is no longer valid as a tool to determine health. We can see this rule from the government’s official circular, which states that every visitor to Bali does not need to show the test again.
For visitors from outside Indonesia, the government does not require an antigen test in Bali; visitors only need to present a negative COVID-19 certificate obtained from their respective countries.
Likewise, with domestic visitors, the government continues to provide specific rules for visitors to Bali. Every domestic visitor is not required to include antigens in Bali if they have carried out a third vaccination or booster. This rule applies to visitors aged 17 years and over, while children aged 6-17 must show proof of second vaccination only.
However, if you do not meet the requirements that have been set, visitors still need an antigen test to be able to visit Bali. For visitors who are around the province of Bali, of course, they already know the best location to do a safe and reliable test. What about visitors who don’t know the best place? Here are reviews related to determining the best site to conduct an inspection.
Bali Antigen Swab Service
Although it has decreased because most people have done the third vaccination, visitors who have not been vaccinated must attach negative evidence of Covid-19, which is officially notified through the Ministry of Transportation of the Republic of Indonesia website.
Getting the Bali antigen swab service is not difficult. Visitors must go to official hospitals, health clinics or laboratory providing Balinese antigen services. It is enough to find out its existence through internet media so that visitors can find the best service locations guaranteed by the Indonesian government.
This Balinese antigen service is relatively easy because many online platforms provide practical ordering; patients order based on the desired examination time. Antigen testing in Bali is very developed and varied. Several service providers are ready to provide services for 24 hours. They are supported by other facilities such as ambulances, medicines and very effective drive-thru services available at various points in Bali.
Conclusion
Antigen and PCR are the same functionally, but there are differences in the time of collection, the price that must be spent and the accuracy of the results obtained from these two tests.
The test is an examination of patients related to Covid-19, this applies if you want to visit a place like Bali, but this rule has changed since the circulation of an official letter from the government, where visitors are not required to show antigen results again, but still comply with existing regulations in Indonesia.
Not being required to carry out an antigen test does not mean visitors can freely go out or enter. The applicable rules still exist. Obeying all the restrictions imposed by the government is proof that we are fully healing the world from this Covid-19 outbreak.
Frequently Asked Questions Antigen Bali
What is an antigen test?
On the other hand, antigen tests look for the antigen of the virus to identify whether you have been exposed to a virus recently or not.
Are antigen tests accurate?
This is due to different retrieval. PCR-based examinations reach 95 per cent accuracy, while the antigen test comes 70-80 per cent.
What is the difference between an antigen test and a regular test?
3 Difference Between Antigen & PCR Test; Examination result accuracy, Inspection time, costs to be incurred.
Where do you get antigen tests?
Antigen testing in Bali is very developed and varied. Several service providers are ready to provide services for 24 hours, such as at Salinebali.com
Which is the best antigen test?
Most of the antigen kit nowadays are able to detect different kinds of Coronaviruses from the alpha type to the omicron. Thus it is safe to say that almost all of the antigen kits are reliable.
What is an antigen test and why is it used in Bali?
An antigen test is a rapid diagnostic tool used to detect the presence of specific viral proteins, such as those from the SARS-CoV-2 virus responsible for COVID-19. In Bali, antigen tests are used to screen travelers and residents for COVID-19 as a faster and more cost-effective alternative to PCR tests, although they are generally considered less sensitive.
Where can I get an antigen test in Bali?
Antigen tests are available at numerous clinics, hospitals, and dedicated testing centers throughout Bali. Some popular locations include Ngurah Rai International Airport, Siloam Hospitals, BIMC Hospital, and Prima Medika Hospital. It's recommended to check the most up-to-date information on testing sites as availability may change.
How much does an antigen test cost in Bali?
The cost of an antigen test in Bali varies depending on the testing center, but is generally more affordable than PCR tests. Prices typically range from IDR 200,000 to IDR 500,000 (approximately $14 to $35 USD). Some facilities may offer discounts for Indonesian citizens or residents.
How long does it take to get antigen test results in Bali?
Antigen test results are usually available within 15 to 30 minutes, making them a faster option compared to PCR tests. However, it's important to keep in mind that antigen tests may be less accurate than PCR tests, particularly for detecting asymptomatic or early-stage infections.
Can I use an antigen test for travel purposes in Bali?
The acceptability of an antigen test for travel purposes depends on the requirements of your destination and airline. While some countries and airlines may accept a negative antigen test result for entry, others may specifically require a PCR test. Be sure to confirm the testing requirements for your destination before scheduling your test.
