What You Need to Know About the New Coronavirus Self-Tests
Since the COVID-19 pandemic broke out, which spread throughout the world, science has made huge leaps, starting with the development and availability of various vaccines and reaching the ability to test for the virus at home.
These tests are essentially another version of rapid tests for home use.
You collect the sample yourself and receive the results on the spot. There is no need to send the sample to the laboratory and wait days for the result.
These types of home tests also allow you to see if you are positive for the virus without having to visit a diagnostic center, where you may expose other people to risk.
These tests are approved for home use by adults, while in the case of children over 6 years old, they are performed or supervised by an adult.
Antigen Test
Self-tests are antigen detection tests. These tests look for antigens, proteins produced by the virus that trigger an immune system response.
It is the same process used for the rapid Strep Test with a throat swab.
After collection, the device checks the sample and provides results in about 15 minutes.
What should we pay attention to in self-tests?
There are many positive features of these tests that are done at home, with the most important advantage being the limitation of potentially infected patients at home but also in educational and work settings.
However, you should keep in mind some points that you should pay attention to regarding sample collection.
While it may seem simple enough to simply swab the inside of your nose, it is very important for anyone using these tests to follow the enclosed instructions. The collection can be done by yourself safely, it is just very important that it is performed correctly.
Test accuracy
In general, the tests have accuracy rates of over 80%. However, there are some issues, such as rapid antigen tests performed by a doctor being slightly less accurate than PCR tests.
The greater accuracy is also related to the length of time since the onset of infection, i.e. if the infection occurred >5 days ago it is more accurate.
These rapid tests sometimes indicate false positive results in asymptomatic individuals. So, if a person is asymptomatic but has been in contact with someone who has COVID-19, there can be confusion about whether the test result is positive or a false positive.
In this case, another test will need to be done.
In conclusion: A big step forward, but continue to follow the measures
These tests and their availability through emergency use authorizations are a big step forward in the field of coronavirus testing and prevention. This means that there are now more tests available and, thanks to these fast results, it is easier to isolate someone who is infected.
However, even with this data, it is important for everyone to continue to follow current guidelines:
Taking precautions – maintaining social distancing, washing hands frequently, and wearing a mask – is still essential to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
