Introduction Accurate and timely COVID-19 testing has been one of the most important tools in managing the pandemic. Whether you’re feeling sick, preparing for travel, or checking after exposure, knowing the right type of test, when to take it, and how to interpret the results is key. This guide breaks down the main testing options—PCR and rapid antigen tests—explaining how they work, how accurate they are, and when each is most useful. Why Testing Still Matters Even as vaccines, treatments, and public immunity evolve, testing remains essential for: Types of COVID-19 Tests COVID-19 tests fall into two main categories: 1.…