SARS-CoV-2 is detected in respiratory specimens of patients suspected of having COVID-19 using molecular testing. This is the only method for diagnosing infected patients currently available.

​

It is crucial in detecting infectious individuals early in the course of the disease so that the infection can be isolated and prevented from spreading to others.

​

• Even when clinical suspicion is low, IDSA recommends SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR testing in symptomatic individuals.

• In asymptomatic individuals that are proven or suspected to have been exposed to COVID-19, IDSA suggests SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR testing.