In drugstores or in the supermarkets, and online, you may have witnessed the kits of COVID-19 rapid antigen test. Federal government in different countries is also distributing the kits to the families to stay safe.
Results of rapid antigen tests can be obtained within 15-20 minutes, which makes them convenient. To contain the spread of Coronavirus, self-testing is an essential tool, along with vaccination, hand-washing, masking, and social distancing.
Guide to doing a COVID-19 rapid antigen test at home
- Using the warm water and soap, wash your hands properly and thoroughly for at least 25-30 seconds.
- The kit is based on two tests. A collection swab, which is a test strip, and a small placement of vial of liquid are all included in it. Make sure that everything is clean just before using.
- You should insert the collection swab five times against the inner wall of each nostril after opening it. Place the swab in the nostrils between 12 and 34 millimeters. As an example, you can also take it as the size of the small pinkie fingertip. The feeling isn’t painful, but it is rather funny. You’ll need to repack the swab, so be sure to keep it.
- Make three taps on a hard surface with the bottom of the vial of liquid.
- Swab the vial 15 times, then close the large-cap on the vial and insert the swab into it.
- Ensure that both the sides of the vial are hence pressed all against the swab as you pull it completely out. It is crucial to complete this step to ensure you get all the information. Close the vial with the cap.
- Timers should be set for 15 minutes. The test strip should not be disturbed during this time.
- You need to read your test.
What do your at-home test kit results mean?
Two things you need to look for after 15 minutes are:
- Under the “C,” there is a line. “It is important that you get a series of line just under the “C.” If no line is appearing under “C,” then you should go for the retest.
- Having no lines under the “T,” or test section indicates it is negative for COVID-19. COVID tests are positive if a line appears under the “T.” The color of the line does not matter if it is faint or bright; as long as it’s there, the test is positive for COVID.
At-home tests: how accurate are they?
PCR tests are more sensitive than antigen tests at home. However, positive COVID home tests are reasonably accurate, so they should be treated as such. However, the false negatives can occur as early on in a certain infection. It’s best to somehow maintain the proper precautions and simply retest within a couple of days if you or even your child have some sort of symptoms or have been exposed to the danger of COVID.
Tests for kids: Tips
Children under the age of 2 should not take at-home rapid antigen tests. Your primary care provider may perform a PCR test on a child under two exhibiting symptoms.
When conducting a COVID at-home test on a child – or any test for that matter – it is essential, to be honest. Remain calm and explain everything you’re doing. Adding a little practical experience is also great.
COVID-19 can be transmitted to individuals, including children, through direct contact. You should be isolating yourself and your kid completely from others.
Try to make your child comfortable if they test positive. If your child is known to be symptom-free, just keep them home from the school or the public places. Ensure they are hydrated and breathing comfortably if they do exhibit symptoms. Tylenol or Motrin can be given if they have a fever. Dosage instructions should be followed.
Be sure to visit your local emergency department if symptoms worsen, including shortness of breath.
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