What is the difference between a COVID-19 antigen and PCR test?

An antigen test checks the presence of a specific viral antigen, which implies current viral infection. Rapid antigen tests may show results in about 15 minutes.

PCR tests check for genetic material (viral RNA) produced by the virus. It determines if you’re currently infected and can spread COVID-19 to others.

Antigen tests have lower sensitivity than PCR tests, which may result in a higher false negative rate.