Since 2020, coronavirus testing has played an important role in detecting COVID-19 cases. It helped prevent the spread of the COVID-inducing SARS-CoV-2 virus, curbing the number of reported infections. COVID testing has become part of international travel, as people need a certificate or proof that they are negative of the disease.
Determining if the individual is COVID positive becomes faster and more convenient with COVID home test kits. Instead of visiting a testing centre, this testing kit can deliver immediate results in the comfort of a person’s home or any location. As authorised by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), people can order this COVID test online or buy it in local drugstores or retailers.
People can choose from two types of diagnostic at-home COVID tests to administer themselves: at-home PCR test or at-home rapid antigen test. Both testing methods can detect infection, especially if the individual exhibits COVID-19 symptoms. However, the two differ in accuracy rate and turnaround time, so learning their difference is crucial before purchasing.
Home PCR tests provide more accurate results than at-home antigen testing. Unfortunately, individuals need to wait for days to get the results. Additionally, the PCR testing kit requires the person to collect a sample and mail the specimen for specialised laboratory examination.
On the contrary, potential buyers must conduct the at-home rapid testing themselves and interpret the outcome afterwards. Antigen testing provides faster results than PCR tests, taking only a day or less to get. Unfortunately, this testing method is prone to producing false-negative results.
As at-home antigen test kits might fail to detect asymptomatic infection, taking supplementary PCR testing is necessary for individuals. People must also quarantine themselves in the meantime while waiting for the results. This way, they avoid spreading the infection if positive with COVID-19.
Prevention is the better cure. People must not substitute at-home COVID testing with measures such as wearing a face mask when going outside, observing social distancing, and getting vaccinated. Aside from taking a test, following these guidelines have greater significance in curbing COVID-19 cases.
Individuals planning to attend events, work onsite, or hold gatherings must only entrust their at-home COVID-19 testing to reputable providers. These companies gained approval from the government to supply COVID test kits. They are also experts in the diseases and performing the examination.
Check this infographic by Harley Medic International for more information about the at-home COVID-19 test.
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