There are a few ways through which you can get tested for coronavirus infection, with varying accuracy. The deep throat swab is able to collect the highest concentration of virus in sample, measuring approximately 90 percent. Testing with sputum or saliva samples both have an approximate virus concentration of 80 percent. This make sense as coronavirus is a respiratory infection, and the virus will be present and more easily detected in samples taken directly from the respiratory system. Testing with fecal samples, as is available for screening in CUHK, has an approximate virus concentration of 70 percent.
Blood testing is also available, but these are less accurate. Instead of testing directly for the COVID-19 virus, they test for antibodies to the virus. Of course, as with any disease, natural antibodies develop later than the virus itself—generally around five to seven days after infection—so because of the time involved for the test to function properly, blood tests are generally not recommended for if you display symptoms and need to urgently get tested for treatment.
There are two types of treatment being used internationally against COVID-19, but they are still in their trial period. Do speak to your healthcare provider if you need to know more about coronavirus medication and treatment.