From an engineer not a medical professional. Any corrections welcomed
The more accurate tests being performed are PCR which is a DNA based test. The private sector is loving them because they make an amount per test and are in no hurry to see it changed. They take hours to get a result because they are batched, transported to a lab etc. This is mostly done with nasal swabs because active virus is easier to detect here. However those being tested often (like ICU staff) are being saliva tested. The Japan Olympics testing was saliva based. COVID-19 testing in Australia - information for health professionals | Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA)
Another test is called rapid antigen testing which takes nasal swab and places it in a solution. Again 15 minutes but these can be done in situ. They are not yet as accurate as PCR but provides a strong indication. Public pathology seems more open to this technology for a range of reasons. I understand the rhinoswab has now detected virus and this was checked. Rapid antigen testing | NSW Government
The rapid antigen model is becoming more attractive for specific use: maybe like testing on building sites.
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