When you’re feeling unwell, it’s important to quickly determine whether COVID-19 could be the cause. At-home COVID tests offer a fast, convenient way to check your status without leaving the house. Whether you’re dealing with a sore throat, fatigue, or other symptoms, these tests can help you make informed decisions about your health and protect those around you.
Testing for COVID-19
COVID-19 testing helps determine if you’re infected, allowing you to take appropriate actions, such as seeking treatment to reduce the risk of severe illness and taking precautions to prevent spreading the virus to others.
Types of tests
Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests
Nucleic acid amplification tests (NAATs), including PCR tests, are more reliable than antigen tests in detecting the virus. NAATs are considered the “gold standard” for COVID-19 testing.
A healthcare provider typically collects your sample, which is sent to a lab for analysis, and results may take up to three days. Some NAATs can be done at the point of care, offering faster results.
Antigen Tests
Antigen tests are rapid tests that typically provide results in 15-30 minutes. Positive results are reliable, but antigen tests are generally less sensitive than NAAT tests, especially without symptoms. Therefore, a single negative antigen test cannot rule out infection.
For greater accuracy, the FDA recommends two negative antigen tests for symptomatic individuals or three for asymptomatic individuals, spaced 48 hours apart. A single NAAT test can confirm an antigen test result.
What is an at-home COVID-19 test?
At-home tests detect proteins, or antigens, from the virus that causes COVID-19, which is why they are called antigen or rapid tests. These tests provide results in about 15 minutes and don’t require lab processing. In contrast, PCR tests detect the virus’s genetic material and must be analyzed in a lab, which can take several hours to a few days, depending on lab volume.
Are at-home COVID tests reliable
At-home tests are accurate about 80% of the time. While that might seem acceptable for a school test, it’s not ideal for detecting COVID-19. This means 20% of the time, or 1 in 5 cases, the test may fail to detect the virus, resulting in a false negative. Misinterpreting false negatives from rapid tests can put high-risk individuals, such as older adults, cancer patients, and those with compromised immune systems, at greater risk.
When You Should Test for COVID-19
If you have symptoms, take a test right away and retest as directed if the result is negative.
If you’ve been exposed but have no symptoms, wait at least five full days before testing to avoid inaccurate results. In high-risk settings, routine testing may be required as part of a screening program.
Consider testing before visiting someone at higher risk for severe COVID-19, such as older adults or immunocompromised individuals, especially if you’re in an area with medium or high COVID-19 hospital admission levels.
Read More: Big Year for Immunity-Boosting Foods Ahead
At-Home OTC COVID-19 Test Result Means
Most FDA-authorized at-home over-the-counter (OTC) COVID-19 tests are antigen tests. Though not flawless, they offer a quick and convenient way to detect the virus, helping you determine if you’re infected and should isolate to prevent further spread.
A positive result
A positive result from an at-home COVID-19 antigen test likely means you have the virus. If you test positive or suspect infection, contact your healthcare provider and follow CDC guidelines to isolate and protect others.
A negative result
A negative at-home COVID-19 antigen test means the virus wasn’t detected, but it doesn’t completely rule out infection especially in early stages. To increase accuracy, take a second test at least 48 hours after the first. Follow the guidance below to interpret your result and decide your next steps.
At-home COVID-19 tests are available again
At-home COVID-19 tests, or rapid antigen tests, are convenient and accessible, with U.S. households able to order four free tests again by the end of September 2024. However, it’s important to remember that these tests can sometimes give inaccurate results. Understanding when and how to use them is key to getting reliable information. Millions of U.S. residents have ordered free tests in the past, and the offer will be available again soon.
Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate are at-home COVID tests?
At-home COVID tests are generally accurate, but their effectiveness can depend on factors like timing, how the sample is collected, and the type of test used. PCR tests are typically more accurate than rapid antigen tests, but both can provide valuable insights.
When should I take an at-home COVID test if I feel sick?
It’s best to take the test as soon as you start experiencing symptoms. For the most reliable results, it’s recommended to test after at least 1-2 days of symptoms, as this is when viral loads are usually highest.
Can at-home tests detect all COVID-19 variants?
Most at-home tests are designed to detect common COVID-19 strains, but they may not be as effective against certain newer variants. However, they can still give a general indication of infection.
Do I need a prescription for at-home COVID tests?
No, at-home COVID tests can typically be purchased without a prescription. Many are available over the counter at pharmacies or online.
What should I do if my at-home test is positive?
If you test positive, it’s essential to self-isolate and follow local health guidelines. You should also confirm the result with a PCR test and notify close contacts.
Can I use at-home tests if I’m asymptomatic?
Yes, you can use at-home tests even if you aren’t showing symptoms. However, they are most reliable when symptoms are present, as the viral load is typically higher during this time.
How long do at-home COVID tests take to give results?
Most at-home COVID tests provide results in as little as 15-30 minutes, making them a quick option for those feeling unwell and in need of a timely answer.
Conclusion
At-home COVID tests offer a convenient and quick way to determine whether COVID-19 is the cause of your symptoms when you’re feeling sick. While they may not be as accurate as lab tests, they provide a helpful screening tool, allowing you to make informed decisions about your health and take appropriate precautions. If you test positive, it’s important to confirm the result with a PCR test and follow guidelines to protect yourself and others. Always stay updated on testing recommendations and consult with a healthcare professional if needed.