COVID-19 testing
We offer PCR tests to check the infection status of COVID-19 and antibody tests to check for the presence of antibodies against the infection.
- PCR test: Telephone reservation
- Antibody test: Online reservation (outpatient)
PCR test
This test checks whether the virus contains the novel coronavirus gene and reveals the infection status at the time of the test.
- Even if the test results at our clinic are negative (as with PCR tests), there may be a certain percentage of false negatives (where the test results are negative even though the person is infected).
- If you suspect you may have been infected with the new coronavirus, please consult your local public health center.
Inspection target
Those who are "asymptomatic" and fall under any of the following categories:
- If you are planning to travel abroad or within Japan for a business trip and require a certificate of PCR test results
- If you are planning to meet with someone at high risk of infection (high possibility of developing serious symptoms) and need to be confirmed as having COVID-19
Cost of testing
33,000 yen (tax included) Includes one "Certificate of Results" form provided by our clinic
- If you require a separate travel certificate, it will cost 11,000 yen (tax included) per certificate.
About issuing a certificate of result
| One result certificate in either Japanese or English (in our hospital format) | Free |
|---|---|
| Second or more copies (in our hospital format) | 3,300 yen per mail (tax included) |
| Certificate of results including information not included in our format | 11,000 yen per letter (tax included) |
Inspection method
The test will be conducted using the collected saliva. To increase the accuracy of the test, please refrain from gargling, eating, drinking, or brushing your teeth for one hour prior to the test.
Notification of test results
Two to three days after the test, you will receive the test results and a result certificate (in our clinic's format) when you visit the clinic or by mail.
Reservation method
Reservations are required. Please make your reservation by phone.
Antibody testing
This test checks whether you have antibodies against COVID-19. Our hospital offers a set of three tests: an antibody test to check for past infection, and a neutralizing antibody test to check the effectiveness of antibodies after vaccination.
- It does not diagnose whether you currently have COVID-19.
- Antibody tests cannot be used to confirm coronavirus infection
- The period during which antibodies remain positive may be short-lived
Inspection target
This test is for people without symptoms. Unlike PCR and antigen tests, it does not diagnose whether you are currently infected.
Cost of testing
| Inspection name | Inspection target | Outpatient consultation price (tax included) | Health checkup options (tax included) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Antibody testing | Previous infection status | 4,400yen | 3,300yen |
| Neutralizing antibody test | Effect of vaccine-induced antibodies | 5,500yen | 4,400yen |
| Antibody testing set of 2 | Previous infection status + Effect of vaccine-induced antibodies | 7,700yen | 6,600yen |
Types of antibody tests
Antibody testing
The antigen is the nucleocapsid protein (N) of the virus. It is used to determine whether or not a person has been infected with the new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2).
Neutralizing antibody test
Neutralizing antibodies are antibodies that bind to the virus and interfere with (neutralize) the virus's ability to infect cells. Antibodies against the spike protein (S) are examples of such antibodies. Measuring neutralizing antibodies can determine whether the vaccine has worked and how much protection it provides against the virus.
Inspection method
The test will be performed using the collected blood. There are no dietary restrictions on the day of the test.
Inspection results
About one week later, the test result report will be mailed to your specified address.
Reservation method
Please make a reservation using the outpatient reservation form below.
Frequently asked questions about testing
- If the PCR test result is negative, does that mean I am not infected?
A negative PCR test result means that the virus was not detected at the time of the test. However, there is a possibility of a false negative result in the early stages of infection or if the sample collection method is not appropriate.
- When is the right time to take a PCR test?
It is recommended that you get tested as soon as symptoms that suggest infection appear. You should also get tested if you are identified as a close contact or if instructed to do so by a medical institution.
- How accurate is the PCR test?
Because it is not 100% accurate, a comprehensive judgment is required based not only on the test results but also on symptoms, whether or not there has been close contact, etc.
- When is the right time to get an antibody test?
It is recommended to get the vaccine at least 2-3 weeks after infection, as antibodies may not have been produced sufficiently in the early stages of infection.
- If I test positive for antibodies, is there a risk of reinfection?
Even if you test positive for antibodies, there is a risk of reinfection. The duration of immunity to COVID-19 is not yet clear. Also, depending on the mutation of the virus, existing antibodies may not be sufficient to protect against it.
