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At Home Covid-19 Test Kits

February 6, 2022
At Home Covid-19 Test Kits

The FDA has approved hundreds of COVID-19 test and collection kits, dozens of which are available for home use. At-home test kits allow you to collect your own sample and receive test results in minutes. There are also at-home test kits that allow you to collect a sample and send it to a laboratory for results.

There are three types of COVID-19 tests available.

    • Molecular – detects the virus that causes COVID-19, SARS-CoV-2.
    • Antigen – detects the specific proteins made by the virus.
    • Antibody or Serology - detects prior or recent COVID-19 infection.

There are currently no self-tests available to detect antibodies to the virus.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the at-home test kits still good if left in freezing temperatures?

    • When the test kits were developed, researchers performed testing to ensure that the test kits would remain stable in various weather conditions, hot or cold.
    • If a test has been in freezing conditions for a prolonged period of time, bring it inside your home and leave it unopened at room temperature for at least two hours. Once the package is at room temperature, it should be ready to use. However, test performance may be affected if the test is used while it is still cold or being used outdoors in very cold temperatures.
    • If the test lines appear as explained in the instructions, the test is likely performing as it should.
    • If the test lines do not appear in the appropriate location and within the correct time, the test may be compromised, and a new test is needed.

How accurate are home tests?

    • The best way to obtain accurate results is to follow all the manufacturer’s instructions.
    • A negative test result means the test did not detect the virus that causes COVID-19, but it doesn’t rule out a COVID-19 infection.
    • A single negative self-test within a few days, with at least 24 hours between tests will increase the confidence that you are not infected with the virus causing COVID-19.

How does one get an at-home test?

    • The tests can be purchased online or in a store. Private insurance will reimburse the cost of purchasing self-test kits.
    • They may also be available at no cost through some local health departments or by ordering them at COVIDtests.gov.

At-home test kit tips:

    • Store test kits according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
    • Check the expiration date.
    • Do not open test components until you are ready to begin the testing process.
    • Have a timer or clock available for testing.
    • Read the test results within the amount of time recommended by manufacturer.
    • Do not reuse test devices or other components.

In addition to vaccination, masking and physical distancing, testing is one of the best ways to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Testing has been made easier with the ability to use at-home test kits. For more information about COVID-19 testing visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention testing website.