COVID-19 Tests and Isolation: How Do They Work to Prevent the Spread of the Virus?
The COVID virus, which devastated many lives in 2020, has without a doubt changed the way we live. It has brought to our attention how little we know about viruses and their effects on the human body.
Even with all of the advancements in medical science, this virus has managed to evade detection until now. It has even evolved into different strains, making it even more challenging to contain.
So far, the health care setting has provided the best way to control the covid pandemic, and that is through vaccination and testing. However, vaccines can only do so much. They cannot prevent asymptomatic COVID carriers from spreading the virus.
This is where antigen testing comes in. Antigen tests can detect the COVID virus even when a person does not have any symptoms. They play a critical role in identifying infected individuals early so they can be isolated and receive treatment. This makes rapid antigen tests an important tool in the fight against COVID.
Whilst different companies are offering different Covid rapid antigen test, not all of them are created equal. To make sure that you are using a quality and accurate Covid antigen test, it’s essential to choose suppliers that have a good track record like Dexcon Global.
Can COVID-19 be Detected by CT Scan?
A CT scan has previously been used to detect infections, such as pneumonia. CT scans work by beaming X-rays through the body, which are then captured by detectors on the other side. These images are then pieced together by a computer to create a 3D image of the inside of the body.
A study of 154 patients in Wuhan, China—the epicentre of the outbreak—who had been diagnosed with COVID-19 found that 78% of them had abnormal findings on their CT scans.
Whilst CT scans may be a helpful tool in detecting COVID-19, they are not accurate. The study also found that 22% of the patients who had CT scans did not have any abnormal findings. However, they may be useful in certain cases where a patient has a high fever and abnormal chest X-rays.
Unlike swab tests, which provide diagnoses of COVID-19, imaging findings are not precise enough to verify COVID-19. They can only be used to indicate the presence of an infection. Other reasons, such as seasonal flu, might produce similar symptoms.
Swab tests are highly effective in detecting COVID-19 because they can directly collect samples from the respiratory tract. This is the part of the body where the COVID virus resides and replicates.
Can I Go to Work If I Test Positive For COVID-19?
COVID-19 is a mandatory health screening in Australia. Anyone diagnosed with COVID-19 must isolate themselves to avoid spreading the virus. Isolation protects people around you, as well as the general public, from COVID-19. The type of isolation you are required to undertake will depend on your diagnosis.
If you test positive for COVID-19, you must immediately isolate yourself at home. You should not go to work, school or public places. You should not use public transport or taxis. Also, you should not have visitors to your home. If you live with other people, you must isolate yourself from them as much as possible. This means staying in a separate room and using a separate bathroom if possible.
If you cannot isolate yourself at home, you may need to go to the hospital. This is usually only the case for very unwell people.
COVID-19 positives must remain in isolation until they have recovered. You can cease to isolate yourself once you’ve completed the treatment process.
The criteria for recovery are:
- You have had no fever for at least 48 hours (without the use of medication).
- Your other COVID-19 symptoms have resolved.
- At least 10 days have passed since your first COVID-19 symptom appeared.
If you live with someone with COVID-19, you must also isolate yourself. This is to prevent you from getting sick.
Is Self-Isolation Recommended For Those With COVID-19?
Yes, self-isolation is recommended for those with COVID-19. This is to prevent the spread of the virus to others. It’s also necessary to take rapid antigen tests in specific circumstances, such as if you have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19 or if you have symptoms of the virus.
Rapid antigen tests are quick and easy to administer. They can be done at home with a kit that is available from your local pharmacy. The test involves taking a swab of the inside of your nose and then inserting it into the testing device. The results are usually available within 15 minutes.
A positive result on a rapid antigen test means that you have COVID-19 and must isolate yourself immediately. A negative result means that you do not have COVID-19 and can continue to go about your normal activities.
How Crucial Is Isolation Even for Non-COVID-19 Patients?
Self-isolation is also vital for individuals who have had direct contact with someone suffering from COVID-19 or are considered infected but are not declared COVID-19 patients.
Why should they isolate?
- To prevent the spread of the virus to others—those who are most vulnerable, such as the elderly or immunocompromised.
- To avoid putting unnecessary strain on the healthcare system.
- To prevent the spread of the virus to others.
- If you have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19.
- If you have symptoms of the virus.
- A positive result on a rapid antigen test means that you have COVID-19 and must isolate yourself immediately.
The COVID virus is not going away anytime soon, so it is important to be vigilant and take the necessary precautions to protect yourself and others. Wearing a mask, washing your hands and physical distancing are all good ways to prevent the spread of the virus. However, the best way to check your health is to consistently take rapid antigen tests. This will help you to identify if you have COVID-19 and need to self-isolate.
Dexcon | Leading Medical PPE Supplier in Australia
Remember, a negative result on a rapid antigen test does not mean that you are in the clear. You should continue to take precautions and get tested regularly.
There are many different types of rapid antigen tests available on the market. This is why it is important to choose a reputable brand that has been approved by the Australian Goods Administration.
Dexcon is Australia’s leading supplier of rapid antigen tests and other medical supplies and equipment. We offer a wide range of products to suit your needs, including individual test kits and bulk orders.
So, if you are looking for a rapid antigen test in Brisbane or Melbourne, Dexcon can provide quality products that are affordable, accurate and easy to use. Order your COVID-19 testing kit today.