Over the past months, we have all adjusted our daily lives in response to the Coronavirus pandemic – working from home, restricting contact to families and friends, and minimizing travel. As we begin to restore our new normal, the health and safety of those around us still remains vital to prevent a future outbreak and protect our loved ones.
With precise and routine testing, we can finally get back to our new normal – uniting with loved ones, reconnecting with friends, working alongside colleagues, and finally having peace of mind.
About SARS-CoV-2
The Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a virus called SARS-CoV-2 which first appeared in China in December 2019. In approximately 86% of all infected individuals, the infection is mild to asymptomatic (Ruiyun Li et al., Science, 2020). However, especially in older people with preexisting illnesses, the virus can lead to severe respiratory disease or even severe pneumonia.
Early detection of SARS-CoV-2 is vital in providing the best care possible to patients and contact persons preventing further spreading of this highly contagious virus.
How Can I Protect Myself From Infection?
Currently, there is no vaccine or direct causal therapy. To prevent infection, thoroughly wash your hands regularly, cover your mouth with your elbow when sneezing or coughing, and carry out ‘social distancing,’ i.e., at least two meters between you and other individuals.
How Can I Get Tested?
The diagnosis of acute COVID-19 is established via a throat swab. This can be done by a healthcare professional or independently following simple video instructions. The sample is then taken to the laboratory, where the genetic information (RNA) of the virus is detected by means of so-called RT-PCR.
About the Test
The SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR test is a real-time test based on the reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) for the qualitative detection of nucleic acid from SARS-CoV-2 in samples of the upper respiratory tract (oropharyngeal swabs) collected from individuals suspected by their healthcare provider to have COVID-19, belonging to a risk cohort, or having been in contact with a confirmed COVID-19 patient.
The results are used to identify SARS-CoV-2 RNA, which is usually detectable in oropharyngeal samples during the acute phase of the infection.
While the science behind the test is quite complex, collecting a sample is easier than brushing your teeth. Within a matter of seconds, you can collect the sample – bringing you one step closer to restored certainty, mobility, and ease of mind.
Key Test Features
Fully validated SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR Test
In accordance with strict Food and Drug Administration’s Emergency Use Guidelines
Rapid turnaround time - optional Fast Track Report at Frankfurt Airport
Help Notify Contact Persons with the Corona Warn-App
CENTOGENE's SARS-CoV-2 test results are recognized by the Corona-Warn-App via a dedicated QR code included on your test result documentation. In the event of a positive test result, by scanning this QR code in the Corona-Warn-App, you can contribute to the effort of notifying all possible contact persons.
To help fight the coronavirus pandemic, download the Corona-Warn-App on your mobile device and activate this feature in the CENTOGENE Corona Test Portal by opting in to the transmission of your pseudonymized test result to the Corona-Warn-App System.
How the Test is Performed
Self-Administered Swab
Instructions for performing a throat swab by yourself
Do You Have Further Questions?
If you have any questions regarding our SARS-CoV-2 Testing, please don’t hesitate to contact us:
corona(at)centogene(dot)com
+49 (0) 381 - 80113 700
Mon. – Sun. 7 a.m. – 8 p.m. CEST
Data Protection for COVID-19 Testing
CENTOGENE does not share any data with third parties (except for the legally required reporting of positive cases to the public health department). The data is processed exclusively in accordance with the consent of the test individuals. All personal data in our database from negatively tested individuals will be deleted after not accessing the data for three months, or in advance on request. All data is processed via an autonomous software application and stored in an encrypted database. CENTOGENE has a state-of-the-art IT infrastructure, which is regularly checked and secured for weak points and possibilities of unauthorized access by third parties. The underlying infrastructure is certiöed according to current IT security and data protection standards. The sample itself is stored for seven days after the test and then destroyed if the test was negative. Positive samples and related data in our database from tested individuals are stored for up to six months or longer if agreed upon by the individual, and in each case, in accordance with the currently applicable legal provisions.