SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Protein RNA Qualitative Detection by Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT) in Saliva
This test checks for genetic material from the virus that causes COVID-19 in your saliva. It helps determine if you may have an active infection.
["A positive result suggests recent COVID-19 infection; a negative result means the virus was not detected at the time of testing."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 95826-4
- Short code
- SARS-CoV-2 RNA Pnl Sal NAA+probe
- Synonyms
- SARS-CoV-2 RNA Pnl Sal NAA+probe
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- probe-amp-tar
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
How the Test Works
The test uses a special probe designed to target the nucleocapsid protein gene of SARS-CoV-2. When your saliva is collected, the virus’s genetic material (if present) is extracted and amplified through a process called nucleic acid amplification. The test then detects this amplified genetic material to confirm infection.
What to Expect Before Testing
No special preparation is needed. You may rinse your mouth with water before spitting into the collection tube. Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking for at least 30 minutes before testing to ensure accurate results.
What the Results Mean
A positive result indicates the presence of the virus’s genetic material, suggesting you may have an active COVID-19 infection. This does not confirm a diagnosis but is often used alongside clinical symptoms and exposure history. A negative result means the virus was not detected at the time of testing, but reinfection or testing too early could affect results.
When You Might Need This Test
This test is commonly used for COVID-19 screening, especially in asymptomatic individuals or when rapid results are needed. It may also be used in outbreaks, pre-travel testing, or as part of routine monitoring in healthcare settings.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test plays a critical role in identifying active COVID-19 infections, guiding public health decisions, and informing treatment and isolation recommendations. While not a definitive diagnostic tool alone, it is often used alongside symptoms, exposure history, and clinical judgment to assess risk of infection.
Short name
SARS-CoV-2 RNA (Saliva) Test
Frequently asked questions
Why might I get this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I get a false positive or negative result?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy