PCR nose and throat swab
PCR test · nasal swab · throat swab · virus test
A nurse gently runs a soft swab in your nose and throat and sends it to the lab. The test looks for traces of viruses or bacteria.
For a cold, cough, or fever, and when it is required for travel, work, or a hospital stay.
⏱ Duration: the swab itself takes about a minute, and results usually take 1 to 2 days
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- 3 to 4 hours before. Usually do not eat, drink, brush your teeth, gargle, or chew gum. Check with your clinic.
- Nose. On the day of the test, do not use nose drops or sprays, and do not rinse your nose, unless your doctor said otherwise.
- Smoking. Do not smoke for a few hours before the swab.
What to bring
- Your referral
- Your ID
- A face mask, if you have cold symptoms
How it goes
- You sit down and tilt your head back a little
- The swab goes into your nostril and is turned for a few seconds
- Then you open your mouth, and the swab is run along the back of your throat
- The swabs go into a tube and are labeled
What you'll feel
- In the nose: a tickle. You may want to sneeze, and your eyes may water
- In the throat: you may gag for a second
Afterwards
- The discomfort passes in a few minutes
- While you wait for the result, if you have a cold, try to keep away from other people
Contact a doctor straight away if
- A nosebleed that does not stop in 15 to 20 minutes: see a doctor or call emergency services
Common questions
Does a nose swab hurt?
It does not hurt, but it is unpleasant. It tickles and you may want to sneeze. It lasts a few seconds.
Can I eat before a PCR swab?
It is best not to eat or drink for 3 to 4 hours. Otherwise the swab may not collect enough material.