If covid-19 doesn't cause snotty nose, why is there a nose swab?

[MRex]

It's just occurred to me that we hear about the "nose and throat swab", yet supposedly there is no actual nasal infection if snotty nose isn't a symptom. Does anyone understand scientifically why therefore there's a nose swab?

Because it's respiratory infection and you breathe in and out of your nose.

I thought it's caused by a respiratory virus, but is a vascular disease. Even if it's both, surely many people will not have much virus in their nose because it doesn't affect the nose?

They aren't testing snot, they are testing the normal secretions from your breathing system (so the mucosa of nose and throat) for viral DNA. Loads of microbes can be found in the nose, including things like meningitis.

It isnt actually supposed to swab your nose, it's to swab your nasal sinus (further back). When you test you are told to blow your nose first. If you have one done by a medic they will put it far further in than the public are encouraged to.

Well anyway, DP’s symptoms were severe snotty nose so it does happen like that.

Thanks, that makes a lot more sense.

How strange @PuppyMonkey, I haven't heard of that, did he have other symptoms too? I hope he's better now?

Yes he’s fine now thanks OP - he had it back in March. He did have other symptoms too, aching, headache and fatigue etc. But mainly a really snotty nose.

Good to hear he's better!