FAQs About Rapid Antigen Testing
As we all know, the risk of getting sick is much higher now than ever. By wearing a mask, getting vaccinated and using rapid antigen tests, we could protect ourselves from the unknown long-term effects of new viruses.
However, with the increased outdoor activity comes an increased risk of exposure to harmful bacteria and viruses. Outdoor events are prevalent this time since many of the population is now vaccinated against COVID-19. But it’s still important to take precautions to stay healthy.
One of the best ways to avoid getting sick is through rapid antigen tests and vaccines that have become a requirement in any outdoor event that draws a large crowd. Rapid antigen tests, in particular, help us prepare for the virus through early detection.
To know more about rapid antigen tests, let’s read some FAQs to keep in mind during this pandemic.
How Do Rapid Antigen Tests Work?
There are at least three ways to do rapid antigen testing. Through nasal swab, oral fluid sample and throat swab. Even though rapid antigen tests have been a requirement for any outdoor event or return to the office, it is much used for reason when someone is getting all the symptoms closely related to COVID-19.
Onsite antigen rapid tests make it easy to test for COVID-19, with results in 15 mins. The test, even at home, can provide results within 10–20 minutes.
The local health government has issued pamphlets and guides on effectively using rapid antigen test kits at home. These self-help test kits are made to prevent suspected virus carrier patients from exposing themselves out in the open and getting tested in laboratories, clinics and hospitals.
You can buy rapid antigen testing kits through pharmacies, reliable retail outlets or supermarkets as easy as pregnancy tests.
Facts About Nasal Swab, Oral Fluid Sample and Throat Swab
- Do not be falsely alarmed that nasal swab testing might poke your brain. A nasal swab only reaches the nasal entry up to the back of the throat. Gag or lachrymal reflex is expected, so at least be aware of this.
- Having a clean mouth is the best way to get results. Proper oral hygiene is best in avoiding any viral infections, but in this case, brushing your teeth and using mouthwash can impede the accuracy you are looking for in the results.
If you want a clean mouth, do it after the test. Wait at least 10–30 minutes, not putting anything orally, such as food, drink or beverages. Take the test and wait for the appropriate time indicated in the rapid antigen test kit. If the test fails, you must do it again.
- Spitting a large saliva volume will generate more results in the rapid antigen test. This is the first unsanitary thing to do. So, No. Just enough to fill the tube provided will be just fine.
- Stocking up a rapid antigen test kit is also a big no. These antigen testing kits are useless after the indicated expiration date. According to FDA, it is not recommended to use rapid antigen kits beyond their authorised expiration dates. This is due to inaccuracy and will only provide invalid test results.
- Using a nasal swab kit for throat swabbing. The FDA warned people to stop deviation experiments at home. Throat swabbing is complicated compared to nasal swab. Strictly following what was indicated in the rapid antigen tests kit will yield an accurate result.
What Should You Do After Getting Your Rapid Antigen Test Results?
It is suggested to isolate yourself from the rest of your family or colleagues once getting a positive result in the rapid antigen tests. If negative, you can submit your results and get on with your everyday routine without the fear of infecting anyone.
Here are some FAQs that might be beneficial for you.
Research has proven that to be tested positive for COVID-19, it takes 5–10 days after common symptoms have been shown.
It is known that after exposure to an infected person, it will take 7–14 days before one will develop symptoms relating to COVID-19. However, since the first outbreak in 2020, different variants have come out. For some people, just after two days of exposure, some tested positive.
A person’s wellness and if a certain person is not yet fully vaccinated can also be considered as they can affect the incubation period of coronavirus and its variants.
There has been a debate about whether asymptomatic people transmit the COVID-19 virus the same as those positive cases. When a person has the flu, the tendency to infect others is high. Saliva droplets from sick people have a high level of viral particles that can be transmitted through sneezing, coughing and talking closely without a mask which is different and hard to trace when asymptomatic.
Yes. This has been proven a lot of times. Traces of coronavirus remnants tend to stay for weeks to months after COVID-19 symptoms in a person have been resolved. Though the viral remnants are sometimes inactive, getting COVID-19 twice or more depends on the person’s immunity or if the person is not vaccinated.
Where Can I Get a Rapid Antigen Test?
You can purchase rapid antigen testing kits from pharmacies, reliable retail outlets or supermarkets. Private companies and local government units also provide on-site testing.
It is best to find a reliable retail outlet for COVID rapid antigen tests through research. We, at Dexcon, want to create a sustainable service whilst we are in the pandemic. Combined with our outstanding service and honest pricing, we can give you the most reliable rapid antigen test you can use at home.
Dexcon | Leading Medical PPE Supplier in Australia
It’s a dangerous world out there, and we know that the best way to take care of ourselves is to get tested whenever we have to mingle with the crowd. COVID-19 scare is still very much present. Vaccines and tests taught us to adapt and protect ourselves for three years.
With Dexcon, you can get medical-grade PPE, masks, face shields, testing kits and other medical supplies. Contact us if you need emergency or wholesale orders.