COVID-19 rapid tests are diagnostic tools designed to quickly determine if a person is currently infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19. These tests typically provide results within 15 to 30 minutes, making them useful for screening in various settings, such as schools and workplaces. They work by detecting specific proteins or genetic material from the virus in a sample, usually taken from the nose or throat. There are two main types of rapid tests: antigen tests and molecular tests. Antigen tests identify viral proteins, while molecular tests, like PCR tests, detect the virus's genetic material. Although rapid tests are convenient, they may be less accurate than laboratory-based tests, so follow-up testing is often recommended if results are positive or if symptoms are present.