A few weeks ago, my daughter woke up with severe allergies. Initially, I thought it was just that time of year, as pollen was everywhere. However, my partner suggested that we should have her take an at-home COVID test to rule out any other issues, and I realized he was right. In today’s world, we can no longer simply assume that symptoms are merely seasonal allergies or a common cold.
Given that she interacts with the public regularly, taking the test made sense—especially since they are readily available and offer quick results. It’s a simple step that everyone should consider, whether vaccinated or not. Having access to these tests has provided a sense of relief, and fortunately, her test result came back negative. To be extra cautious, we also took her to the doctor for a professional test, which confirmed the at-home results.
With the rise of at-home testing, many people are curious about their accuracy and which brands are the most trustworthy. This is particularly important as cold and flu season approaches, and the Delta variant continues to spread. The CDC has indicated that this variant is over twice as contagious as previous strains, increasing the importance of testing even for vaccinated individuals.
According to The Washington Post, there are several FDA-approved rapid antigen tests that can be conducted at home, providing results in about 15 minutes. These tests are designed to detect the virus itself, unlike antibody tests, which can only indicate past infections or vaccinations. Some reliable tests include Abbott BinaxNOW, Ellume COVID-19 Home, and Quidel QuickVue tests.
Yale Medicine notes that while antigen tests can be effective, their sensitivity varies based on the infection’s stage. They are generally more reliable when symptoms are present. For the best accuracy, it’s advisable to take multiple tests over a few days to avoid false negatives.
Despite the convenience of at-home tests, the most accurate method for COVID screening remains a visit to a healthcare provider for a molecular (PCR) test. While these tests are more sensitive and specific, they may also yield false positives. Results typically take between one day to a week, depending on the laboratory. Although there are currently no over-the-counter PCR tests, they are expected to be available this fall.
If you’re planning to purchase an at-home test, ensure it’s FDA-approved by checking the packaging or visiting the official website. They are especially useful if you’ve recently been exposed to someone with COVID, have been in crowded spaces, or are preparing to travel.
Next time you’re at the store, consider picking up a couple of these tests. However, remember that for the highest accuracy, a PCR test from a healthcare professional remains the best option.
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In summary, at-home COVID tests are a convenient option for quick results, but they are best used alongside professional PCR testing for the most reliable results. As we navigate through the ongoing pandemic, being proactive about testing can help ensure the safety of ourselves and others.
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