Hi all.
We need to have a PCR test done (due to travel) and we can't think about doing this again. In the previous test, our 5 years old daughter was really traumatized by this nose "lobotomy" style.
Question - we've heard that there are doctors who have a milder approach and less painful (sampling only from the top of the tongue). Does anyone has a doctor or a place to recommend that does nonepainfulPCR tests?
Many thanks
Ariel

Zurich airport, you spit into a tube

I was going to say I believe the airport does spit testing. Though it looks like different companies in different terminals, I heard this I think about the T2 testing. Contact them to check https://checkport.info/covid-testcen...afen-zuerich-2

Oh. Do you know if it's a PCR?

NAAT (Specifically, RT-PCR via NP swab) is what the US/CDC require for entry. Saliva load in most studies show less detection than nasal which is why nasopharyngeal swabs for PCR is the current gold standard predominantly required - how well do airport/airline/immigration staff discern this subtlety? Anyone's guess

But at GVA, they scrutinized quite specifically which test & proof of negative results were being presented. In AMS, similar. In US, less so but it was the key document (Even over my passport)


To the OP, if it was painful where you went initially try a different location. These days, most screening centers are quite skilled now at being quick & painless. Nyon hospital is mostly very good IMHO. It's not a fun test but when done properly it's feasible even for a 5 yr old (Not mine, of course - she'd be screaming). It's quick too so the pain is short lived. I do like that many places actually ask which nare you prefer to be swabbed, that does seem to cushion the pending blow

Thanks for the detailed explanation;
The country I'm flying to requires "PCR test done 72 hours before flight". There's nothing specific about how this test is done.
If I can do a Spuck test (which is PCR) , I think it's the best option.

It says PCR. Swiss government website says saliva PCR is as accurate as a swab PCR.

This is what I've also been aware of. There's no explanation /difference described. Just says PCR.

The 72 hrs is now more or less standard, you'll need this at both departure & ahead of the return

Verify site/lab you select can provide you results within 72 hrs else you won't be allowed to board

Saliva PCR testing, likely avenue going forward, however I have yet to see agreement on it or described by bag as a viable option. Current literature, the sensitivity of oropharyngeal saliva samples is called into question as is agreement on specimen collection methods.

Atm, Swiss bag does not distinguish which PCR specimen needs to be negative but some destinations do (US & NL, for example)

As far as I’m aware, PCR is the analysis technique - not the sampling technique. I assume if it was an issue, they wouldn’t be doing that type at the airport as everyone would be being refused travel. That company also offers the dual test for Netherlands - so assume it’s kosher!