Why Testing for COVID at Home May Actually Be A Good Idea

The arrival and distribution of the COVID vaccine has been the greatest boon in the fight against this epidemic, but we're not quite over it yet. Ongoing cases, problems getting the vaccine to communities in need, and the growth of Delta variants mean we have a long way to go before SARS-CoV-2 becomes less severe.

COVID tests remain one of the most important tools available during a pandemic. They can give a fairly accurate diagnosis and provide information to health professionals that can then be used in ongoing community health efforts. Even if you are a vaccinated person, it may be worthwhile to keep some of the COVID tests in the mail. Read on to learn why home testing is so important.

What types of COVID tests are available?

You will find a wide range of mailed test kits (sometimes called self-tests) that have been authorized by the FDA for emergency use.
Rapid antigen tests are available as home sample collection kits. These tests detect specific proteins produced by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. As the name implies, rapid tests provide results quickly, usually in as little as 15 minutes.
The primary type of COVID-19 test you can get at home is a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, such as the Everlywell COVID-19 Test Home Collection Kit DTC. these tests detect the presence of RNA from the SARS-CoV-2 virus. With these self-test kits, you can typically receive results within 24 to 48 hours after the lab receives your sample. This is longer than a rapid antigen test, but it also provides a more accurate diagnosis.

Tips for performing ADVANT's test kits

There is always a potential risk of contaminating the sample with a home collection test. Some tips for performing the test.
Wash your hands with soap and water before collecting the sample.
Follow the instructions included with the test collection kit to properly collect your nasal sample.
Clean the countertop, table or other surface where you plan to collect the nasal or saliva sample.
Check the expiration date on the test. Expired test collection kits may provide inaccurate results.

What are the benefits of home testing?

Like any mailed test, the COVID Self-Test offers a unique sense of comfort and convenience. You can perform the sample collection and mail it out from the comfort of your own home, without even changing out of your pajamas.
The Home Collection COVID test also offers greater security and protection. You don't have to go to a healthcare facility and risk exposing yourself to infection. If you do get the virus, you won't risk spreading it to other patients, visitors or health care workers who perform saliva or nasal swab tests.

Even if you have been fully vaccinated, it is a good idea to have mail-in test kits on hand. Breakthrough cases happen and are expected, and knowing if you have been infected can protect your community and your loved ones. Contact us today for a professional home testing kit.