Rapid COVID-19 Antigen Testing is a diagnostic test used to quickly detect the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. In Calgary, this testing method provides a swift way to determine if a person is currently infected with the virus. Unlike PCR tests that require laboratory processing, antigen tests can deliver results in a matter of minutes, making them ideal for urgent situations or when rapid turnaround times are crucial. During a Rapid COVID-19 Antigen Test, a healthcare provider collects a sample, often through a nasal or throat swab, and then analyzes the sample on-site for the presence of viral proteins. This test is particularly valuable for identifying active infections in symptomatic individuals or for screening purposes in certain settings. While antigen tests offer speed and convenience, they may have slightly lower sensitivity compared to PCR tests, especially in detecting early-stage infections. However, they remain a valuable tool in the fight against COVID-19 by providing quick results to guide timely medical decisions and infection control measures.