All Things You Need to Know about RT-PCR Test for Travelling

We know the journey is particularly difficult at the moment. But alongside the latest travel tips and COVID-19 updates, we want to continue to inspire you with new travel ideas so you're ready when the world reopens. In any case, upon returning from a trip in or out of the European area, two things will be asked of you: a negative RT-PCR test for travel and a travel certificate. This precious sesame, the negative PCR test, is also required at your point of arrival. But then, how to carry out an RT-PCR? Where and when to do it? And how much does that cost? We take stock to ensure that your adventure takes place in complete safety if you have chosen to travel soon.

PCR test or antigen test?

There are two types of tests to monitor for Covid-19: the PCR test (or RT-PCR) and the antigen test. Both tests have the same goal: to determine if the virus is present in your nasal mucosa at any time . While the PCR test requires an analysis of several hours in the laboratory, the antigen test identifies the virus in less than 30 minutes. However, the PCR test is more sensitive to the detection of the virus, and therefore more reliable. You will also be asked for the PCR test throughout Europe and on your return if you wish to travel.

How to do a PCR test for traveling?

There is a group the talks about the requirement for the PCR test to travel, but little about the actual process. It is performed using a nasopharyngeal swab to reach the nasal mucous membranes. Concretely, a large cotton swab is inserted at the bottom of your nose to remove part of this mucous membrane. According to the feedback from people who have performed the test, the sample is not a very pleasant time. However, it merely lasts a small number of seconds and remains bearable for most people. The length of the swab (cotton swab) can also be impressive. But don't worry, there is no risk to your health and this process has been used for a long time for the detection of other viruses.

Why perform a PCR test?

We detail below the two situations in which you should perform a PCR test if you intend to travel. Of course, the PCR test is also necessary if you are not traveling soon but have symptoms of Covid-19.

To go abroad

Most of the countries like PCR travel test London in the European area have kept their borders open with the exception of six countries. Indeed, Belgium, Cyprus, Denmark, Hungary, Norway, and the Czech Republic have closed their borders. Unless there is a powerful reason, this cannot be done even on the presentation of a negative PCR test. This is also the case for the United Kingdom, which is no longer part of the European Union after Brexit. Other measures specific to each country are also required (isolation, second PCR test, etc.). We strongly advise you to consult the recommendations by country of the PCR travel test Liverpool.