With the world hurling in and out of different COVID-19 variants, which has taken the better part of the last two years of our lives, we now find ourselves looking for COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Self-Test Kits. Waiting in lines or getting appointments to test for COVID is a hassle but should be your priority if you have symptoms. Although, why not get yourself an antigen self-test kit and initially test yourself at home. Convenience and less stress of exposure. With home test kits, you have the facility of testing yourself and the family at your own pace and comfort. Yes, testing of any sort is not a pleasant feeling, but at least you can do this test at home and not worry about spreading the virus.
This article is a general guide on COVID-19 Rapid antigen self-test kits and what to look at when purchasing a kit for yourself. However, it is advised to read the instructions that come with the packaging and do extensive research before and after purchasing your self-test kit. It is further advisable to speak to your personal GP on recommended self-test kits and what might best work for you and your family.
What is a COVID-19 Rapid Antigen self-test kit?
A Rapid antigen self-test kit for COVID-19 is a test kit that one can use at home. The kit tests a nasal swab or saliva for the presence of the virus that causes COVID-19. The advantage of this type of test is that it can be done without a doctor or health practitioner and can be used at home or even at your place of work.
A COVID-19 Rapid antigen test is best used when a person with symptoms uses it. It is important to note that home-use tests are not as accurate as tests that are done in a laboratory, such as PCR tests. However, they are beneficial as they can provide results in a short time.
Sample types
There are two main types of sample tests: nasal swab or saliva. This means that the test you purchase may need a sample of either saliva from your mouth or use a nasal swab to get a sample from your nose. Depending on what you prefer to use and the availability of test kits, you can select a kit you're comfortable using.
Where Can I Purchase Self-Tests for COVID -19?
Home use tests are purchased at pharmacies, in supermarkets, other retailers, and online. Only tests that have been approved by Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) can legally be offered for sale in Australia.
You can also find a range of different test kits at CPA (Cleaning Products Australia).
https://cleaningproductsaustralia.com.au/
TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration)
There are over 20 different authorized COVID-19 self-tests approved in Australia. These tests are TGA (Therapeutic Goods Administration) approved for supply in Australia since November 1st, 2021.
It is crucial only to take an at-home test that TGA has approved. The TGA website provides a listing of all tests for home use that have been approved by the TGA and the instructions of each manufacturer for every test.
To better understand the approved list with a detailed overview of how to use the tests, you can read up more on the TGA website.
https://www.tga.gov.au/covid-19-rapid-antigen-self-tests-are-approved-australia
These approved tests by the TGA are aligned with international standards and technical specifications of the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Commission.
Directions on how to use tests
It is advised to refer to the instructions given on the packaging when using the test kit, as each test may have specific directions and guidelines. Do not throw away the packaging, and when purchasing a self-test kit, be sure to buy one that comes with properly sealed packing.
Every pack you buy must include:
- The test equipment.
- Chemical reagents.
- The instruction for using the tests.
- Information on where to find the online instructional video.
What are the test results like?
The majority of test kits for home use results will be displayed in a window, and the instructions included with the test will clarify what the results mean.
What should you do when you receive a Positive result?
If you have positive results, you must immediately undergo a PCR test at an accredited laboratory or testing facility to verify that you are COVID-19 Positive.
It is suggested that you remain at home following a positive home use test and wait for the results of your PCR test. Get in touch with the relevant health department in your state or territory for more information about quarantine requirements.
What should you do if you receive a negative result?
If you have a negative result, you are less likely to suffer from COVID-19. However, you are still required to follow all medical advice regarding preventing COVID-19's spread.
If you or anyone at home are feeling unwell or experiencing symptoms, then take a PCR check at a testing facility within the shortest time possible to ensure you don't have COVID-19.
What should you do when you're given an error message that says "invalid?
Tests could also yield an invalid result.
An' invalid' result signifies that the test was not conducted properly. If this occurs, it is best to throw away the test out and do a new test or have a PCR test performed in the laboratory at a testing facility.
Using Antigen Self-Test Kits on Children
Children should be tested only when they are administered or overseen by an adult. Follow the instructions included with the test. Find any safety guidelines to follow when testing on children.
How can I dispose of the results of a home use test?
The test will differ based on the details provided in the test’s instructions. Certain tests are supplied with bags made of plastic to put the test materials into (including the sample). The bag must then be placed into a separate bag for disposal along with the household waste.
If there are no bags available, you may place the test items in a sealable plastic bag. You should, after that, place the bag in a different plastic bag that can be sealed and then disposed of in your home's garbage.
Ensure to wash your hands with care after the test is completed and once you have disposed of the contents of the test kit.
These are generic instructions. The ideal way of disposing of the test kit and its contents is given on the instructions of the specific test kit you purchase.
Remember!
Failure to use the test correctly can lead to incorrect results.
Wash and clean your hands before you perform the test.
Verify the expiry day on the foil pouches. You should not use tests that are past the expiry date.
Each test is for one-time use only, which means that you can only take the test one time, and after that, it has to be removed. Never use tests more than once or attempt to use the same test on different individuals.
For more accurate readings, it is suggested that you use the test within seven days of the onset of symptoms.
Positive results from home-use tests need to be confirmed using the PCR test in the laboratory or at the testing site.
Anyone who is symptomatic and does not have a positive result on the home test should seek additional PCR testing to ensure that they are not suffering from COVID-19.