An instruction manual for performing a COVID-19 antigen test at home:
1.Spend at least 30 seconds thoroughly washing your hands with warm water and soap.
2.The test includes a collection swab, a test strip, and a small vial of liquid ,which are the three primary components. Put them on a spotless surface.
3.After opening it, place a collection swab inside each nostril and rotate it five times against the inner wall. The swab should be inserted between 12 and 34 of an inch into the nostrils. After that, put the swab back into its container because you'll need it soon.
4.Tap the liquid vial's bottom three times on a solid surface.
5.Swab into the vial after opening the big cap and stirring it 15 times.
6.Pull the swab out while pressing the vial's sides against it. This is an important step since it makes sure you have the entire collection, according to Alvarado. After that, replace the vial's cap.
7.Activate the test strip. You'll see that it has both a "C" and a "T."
8.Squeeze three drops of your sample into the strip's collection area by opening the smaller, top cap of the liquid vial.
9.Set a 15-minute timer. During this period, refrain from touching the test strip.
10. Read the exam.
How to interpret the outcomes of your at-home test kit
You're going to check for two things after 15 minutes:
The control is a line underneath the letter "C." You must draw a line beneath the letter "C." It informs you whether the test is successful. You must retest if there isn't a line under "C," according to Alvarado.
It is negative for COVID-19 if there is no line at all in the area under the "T," or test portion. The test is positive for COVID if there is a line under the "T." No matter how light or dark the line under the "T" is, Alvarado insisted that its presence indicates a positive COVID test.
How reliable are tests done at home?
How reliable are tests done at home?
The PCR tests are more sensitive than the at-home antigen tests. A positive COVID home test is fairly accurate and ought to be regarded as such. But if the infection is still young, there may be false negative results. It is advisable to maintain proper measures and retest within a few days if you or your child exhibit symptoms or have been exposed to COVID.
If you or your child show signs of COVID-19
In the event that your child tests positive, make them feel at ease. Even if they are symptom-free, keep them home from school and public settings. Keep them hydrated and make sure they are breathing easily if they do exhibit symptoms. Tylenol or Motrin are acceptable to administer if they have a temperature. Observe the dose recommendations on the packaging.
It is suggested that people should keep an eye on their symptoms and visit the emergency room if they develop worse and involve shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
When should I have a COVID-19 test?
You should get tested if you've been around someone who has COVID-19 or if you have symptoms. Even if you don't have symptoms, experts advise getting tested at least 5 days after having close contact with someone who has COVID-19. You can test straight immediately if you are experiencing symptoms.