The different types of tests also test for different things – so thinking of them as tests that simply tell you whether you have Covid-19 is oversimplistic.
Picture for illustration. Lab staffer at work. Picture: AFP / File / Douglas MAGNO
Laboratory companies have assured travellers of a 24-hour turnaround time for Covid-19 testing as requests for the service have doubled over the holiday season. Travellers leaving South Africa were expected to produce a negative Covid-19 test result, as per legislation. But, given the long waiting periods at public healthcare facilities, those wishing to leave the country would have to fork out at least R850 for a test. Major laboratories promised a 24- hour waiting period. But those remaining at home may find it harder to get their results back, as the wait was longer in private and public facilities. According.