Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2 Qualitative Test
Short Name: Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2
Also known as: Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2 Test, COVID-19 Qualitative Test, SARS-CoV-2 CB-NAAT Test, COVID-19 GeneXpert Test
Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2 Qualitative Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹2,808. Uses Real Time RT-PCR, CB-NAAT (Cepheid Xpert Xpress) on Nasopharyngeal swab / Nasal wash swab / Aspirate specimen in Viral Transport Medium (VTM) samples. Results in Samples received by 11 am are generally reported the same day. Turnaround time from sample receipt to reporting is approximately 45 minutes on the CB-NAAT platform, subject to laboratory workload.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of this test is to detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA in respiratory specimens and help clinicians diagnose acute COVID-19 infection.
- Test Code
- 3763
- ICD Code
- U07.1
- Price
- ₹2,808
- Sample Type
- Nasopharyngeal swab / Nasal wash swab / Aspirate specimen in Viral Transport Medium (VTM)
- Result Time
- Samples received by 11 am are generally reported the same day. Turnaround time from sample receipt to reporting is approximately 45 minutes on the CB-NAAT platform, subject to laboratory workload.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real Time RT-PCR, CB-NAAT (Cepheid Xpert Xpress)
Sample Collection
No special preparation or fasting is required. Please carry the duly filled Covid-19 Clinical Information Form (Form 44) / SRF ID and a valid identification document. Inform the collection team if you have had any prior COVID-19 test or vaccination.
Method: Nasopharyngeal / nasal wash swab collection by trained healthcare professional
Laboratory Analysis
A trained professional will collect the specimen using a nasopharyngeal or nasal swab. The procedure takes a few seconds. You may feel mild discomfort or a tickling sensation.
Report Delivery
There are no restrictions after sample collection. You may leave and resume normal activities. The swab is placed in VTM and sent refrigerated to the laboratory for testing.
Timeline: Samples received by 11 am are generally reported the same day. Turnaround time from sample receipt to reporting is approximately 45 minutes on the CB-NAAT platform, subject to laboratory workload.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of this test is to detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA in respiratory specimens and help clinicians diagnose acute COVID-19 infection.
How to Prepare
- Nasopharyngeal swab / nasal wash swab / aspirate specimen must be placed in a special Viral Transport Medium (VTM).
- Ship the sample refrigerated at 2-8 degree Celsius. Do not freeze.
- Duly filled Covid-19 Clinical Information Form (Form 44) / SRF ID, as mandated by GOI, is mandatory.
- For sample received by 11 am, the report will be generated the same day.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"If the result is positive, the patient should be evaluated for disease severity and managed according to current guidelines. A negative result must not be used alone to rule out COVID-19. Clinical judgement remains essential."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Frozen specimen
- Improper labelling or mismatch between requisition form and sample
- Missing Covid-19 Clinical Information Form (Form 44) / SRF ID
- Specimen submitted in a container without VTM
- Specimen received after the recommended stability period
Understanding Your Results
Detected (Positive)
SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA was detected. This suggests current COVID-19 infection and should prompt clinical evaluation and isolation protocols.
Not Detected (Negative)
SARS-CoV-2 viral RNA was not detected. This does not rule out infection, especially in early or late infection or if specimen quality was poor.
Invalid / Error
A result could not be generated. A fresh specimen should be collected and retested.
Consult a physician if you have or develop symptoms of COVID-19, if you test positive, or if your negative result does not match your clinical picture. Do not interpret or act upon these results without medical advice.
Limitations
- ⚠This is a qualitative test and does not measure viral quantity or infectivity.
- ⚠A negative result does not rule out SARS-CoV-2 infection if clinical suspicion remains.
- ⚠Results must be interpreted alongside clinical symptoms, exposure history and other laboratory findings.
- ⚠The approved sample types are limited to respiratory specimens collected in appropriate VTM.
Risks & Considerations
- ●Mild discomfort during swab collection
- ●Slight gagging or watery eyes
- ●Transient nasal irritation or mild bleeding
- ●No major complications are expected
Interfering Factors
- ●Inadequate or poor-quality respiratory specimens may cause false-negative results.
- ●Specimen freezing can degrade viral RNA and is not acceptable.
- ●Excessive delay in transport or storage beyond recommended stability may alter results.
- ●PCR inhibitors in the sample may interfere with amplification.
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2 Qualitative Test | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2 Qualitative Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price of the Xpert Xpress SARS-CoV-2 Qualitative Test at DNA Labs India?
What sample is needed for this test?
Do I need to fast before this test?
When will I get my report?
Is home sample collection available for this test?
Who should get this test done?
What does a positive result mean?
What does a negative result mean?
Can this test be performed in children?
Are Form 44 and SRF ID mandatory for this COVID-19 test?
How is the Xpert Xpress test different from a rapid antigen test?
Can I use a negative report for travel?
Reference Laboratory Services
We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.
Your Data Privacy
Your medical data is protected under Indian law.
✓ Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.
✓ DPDP Act Compliant: Under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, you can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting support.
Book Your Test
Enter your details and we'll connect you within 15 minutes.