PCR Test Norwich

July 2021 | Reading time: 3 minutes

Our in-clinic PCR test is now available at VIVO Clinic Norwich. VIVO Clinic’s PCR tests and fit-to-fly certificates are recognized globally.

With foreign travel from the UK in full swing and the government having dropped its stance against visiting amber list countries, more people are going on holidays than had in the previous year.

However, most popular destinations around the world refuse to let international arrivals in without a negative PCR test.

Moreover, the UK government has disallowed the use of NHS PCR tests for foreign travel purposes. Potential travellers and holidaymakers are advised to avail themselves of PCR tests provided by private suppliers that the government has approved.

This is where VIVO Clinic comes in. Our PCR tests are being catered specifically for foreign travel. With the current climate in mind, we offer next-day test results and attested fit-to-fly certificates which contain detailed lab analysis.

What is a PCR test?

PCR (short for Polymerase chain reaction) is a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT) used to diagnose whether a person is currently infected with SARS-CoV-2.

How reliable are PCR tests?

No tests are 100% accurate, even the ones meeting safety and performance regulatory standards. PCR tests are considered the most reliable among all the COVID-19 detection methods available in the market.

Why do I need a PCR test to travel?

Almost every government in the world has made it a law for visitors to present a negative PCR test at the borders when seeking entry.

When should I book the in-clinic PCR test?

The rules of when a PCR test needs to be taken to be considered valid varies from country to country. Some governments require travellers to take a PCR test 72 hours before departure, while others consider only PCR tests taken within 48 hours of travel valid. Furthermore, these rules are subject to continuous updates.

It is best to refer to the government’s travel advice page for your destination country’s entry requirement before booking any tests for travel.

Will you provide me with a fit-to-fly certificate?

Yes, we shall. VIVO Clinic’s fit-to-fly certificates include detailed test analysis and attestation by the laboratory personnel who carried out the testing.

Is your laboratory regulated?

Yes. Care Quality Commission (CQC) governs the regulatory concerns of our laboratory.

CQC certification: CRT1-4708702735

How are VIVO Clinic’s PCR tests in Norwich done?

The actual testing is done at our laboratory – you will only need to be present for the sample collection. It is a simple process where you will be required to extract samples from inside your nose and the back of your throat using swabs.

You can refer to this video for an idea of how it will be done.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8yhrLu6whq8

Can I find out about a previous infection with a PCR test?

PCR tests can be used to diagnose a current infection only. However, you can use our immune response test to check for a previous COVID-19 infection.

What if my PCR test result comes back positive for COVID-19?

If your test indicates you are infected, you will have to enter quarantine immediately and put off your travel plans until such a time when you have recovered fully and can prove it with a negative PCR test.