Since the COVID-19 pandemic, people have realised the importance of masks. Previously, masks were worn in polluted cities to protect the lungs from air pollution or by medical professionals whilst treating patients or performing operations.
With the COVID pandemic, everyone has started using masks as it is the most effective and cheapest way to protect themselves from the COVID-19 virus. This has led to the development of various types of masks on the market, making it difficult for people to differentiate between them.
The COVID-19 pandemic is still not over. It is still prevailing in most parts of the world, and even new variants are emerging. This is why it is critical to understand the different types of masks in order to make an informed decision when purchasing them.
Read this article to learn about the types of masks and how to choose the right one.
Why Are Rapid Antigen Tests Useful?
The main benefits of a rapid antigen test which you can perform on your own, are listed below:
Quick testing
You don’t have to wait for hours or days for results. The test can be done within minutes, and results are also available minutes after testing. This makes it highly convenient to perform it quickly and use the results to diagnose your health. Quick tests save you valuable time, without which you would accidentally pass on the virus to others if you don’t take adequate measures.
Avoid unnecessary travel
Driving to and from a testing facility or hospital could be tiring. In a prevalent COVID-19 situation, avoiding all forms of human contact is crucial. You are at a higher risk of contracting the virus when you frequently visit hospitals with patients reporting positive results. A rapid antigen test kit eliminates this situation and keeps you safe.
Suitable for any time and place
Rapid antigen tests are designed with minimal components and are portable so you can carry them on the go. The test only needs you to perform a nasal swab; all instruments come with the kit. You can easily take the test at any time of the day for a quick diagnosis, no matter where you are. It is highly beneficial for people who live far away from testing establishments.
Valid results for many areas demanding tests
Many areas and events needing a test within the past 24 or 48 hours accept rapid antigen tests. If you are to attend an event in a new location or need a test urgently, a rapid antigen test kit comes in handy to produce the results. The tests accurately indicate your condition to ensure you have not contracted the virus.
When to Use Rapid Antigen Tests
If you are wondering when to use rapid antigen test, the following are the principal circumstances that demand you to take a test:
If you show any symptoms
If you feel sick and are feverish, you should always test for COVID-19 to decide to quarantine and prevent the spread any further. A sore throat or cough often indicates an infection from a virus and must not be ignored. Taking the test as soon as possible reduces the risk of inadvertently harming those in your vicinity.
If you want to travel
If you are planning to travel a long distance, you should always take a test, even if you are not showing any symptoms. The test ensures you don’t spread a virus in a new area and contribute to the increase in the number of positive cases.
If you are attending a gathering
If you plan to attend a gathering of a considerable size, then you should perform a rapid test. The test helps you not pass on the virus to new people if you are a passive carrier with no symptoms. All guests should test before attending any big event to curtail the spread of the deadly virus.
How to Perform the Rapid Antigen Test
- Nasal swab
- Extraction tube
- Extraction buffer
- Test device
- Timer
Dexcon | Leading Medical Device and PPE Supplier in Australia
Rapid antigen tests are instrumental in determining if you have come in contact with COVID-19. The tests can be taken anytime and are accurate to a large extent, making them very useful. The procedure is easy to perform and should be done at the first sign of symptoms.
Are you looking for high-quality medical products like rapid antigen test kits to protect yourself and those around you?
At Dexcon, our products are trusted by healthcare professionals for their superior quality and reliability. From surgical masks and gloves to rapid antigen test kits and sanitisers, we have what you need to stay safe and healthy.
Contact us for more details about our products.