“A Simple Guide to At-Home COVID-19 Rapid Testing”

Rapid COVID-19 home testing kits are not unfamiliar to many, as they help quickly determine whether one is infected. However, not everyone knows how to use them effectively.

This article will guide you through the simple process of using a rapid COVID-19 home testing kit, specifically the Humasis Covid-19 Ag Test kit.

1What’s included in a rapid COVID-19 test kit?

The Humasis Covid-19 Ag Test kit includes:

• 1 swab for collecting a sample from the nasopharyngeal region
• 1 tube containing an extraction solution
• 1 filter cap
• 1 test tray

Humasis Covid-19 Ag Test Kit Contents

Reference:

2How to use the rapid COVID-19 test kit

Sample Collection

Sample Collection Method

Step 1 Sanitize your hands with soap or alcohol-based sanitizer.

Step 2 Open the package containing the swab and hold the stick by the end without the cotton, being careful not to touch the cotton tip.

Step 3 Insert the swab into the nostril of the person being tested and gently push it as far as it will go, ideally until it reaches the back of the nasal cavity. Rotate the swab about 5 times and leave it in place for 5-10 seconds to absorb fluids.

Step 4 Carefully remove the swab without touching the cotton tip.

Testing Procedure

Testing Procedure

Allow the test kit to adjust to room temperature for about 30 minutes before starting the testing process.

Step 1 Remove the test tray and place it on a flat surface.

Step 2 Shake the extraction tube downward before opening it to ensure the buffer solution collects at the bottom.

Step 3 Open the tube, insert the swab, and rotate it at least 10 times to ensure adequate sample collection.

Step 4 Remove the swab from the tube and squeeze the cotton tip or press it against the side of the tube to release all the fluid.

Step 5 Attach the filter cap to the tube. Then, slowly dispense 3 drops of the extracted solution (approximately 90 ~ 100uL) onto the sample well of the test tray.

Step 6 Wait for 15 minutes for the results to appear. Do not interpret the results after 20 minutes have passed since dispensing the sample onto the test tray.

Reference:

Interpreting the Results

There are three possible outcomes:

Interpreting the Test Results

Negative result: One colored line appears at the C mark on the test tray.

Positive result: Two colored lines appear at the T and C marks, or a faint line at the T mark and a colored line at the C mark on the test tray.

Invalid result: No lines appear, or only one colored line appears at the T mark on the test tray.

Further Reference: 

3Notes on Sample Collection with the Rapid COVID-19 Test Kit

How long does it take to get results from a rapid COVID test?

The time required to obtain results varies depending on the reagent used. Typically, results are available within 15-30 minutes.

Rapid COVID-19 Test Kits are available at major pharmacies in the city

How much does a rapid COVID-19 test kit cost, and where can I buy it?

You can find these test kits at major pharmacies in your city. The price typically ranges from 90,000 to 100,000 VND per kit.

Specifically, the Humasis COVID-19 Ag Home Test kit made in South Korea costs around 86,000 – 90,000 VND, while the labnovation kit from China is priced at approximately 70,000 – 75,000 VND.

Other Notes on Sample Collection

– Do not reuse the test tray.

– Keep the test tray sealed in the aluminum pouch before use, and use it immediately upon opening. If the pouch is damaged or the tray is compromised, do not use it.

– Allow the test kit to reach room temperature before performing the test.

– Interpreting the results before 15 minutes or after 20 minutes can lead to inaccurate results. It is best to read the results within this time frame.

Disinfect your hands and relevant surfaces according to guidelines

– After completing the test, place all the items from the kit into a bag and seal it tightly to prevent exposure. Additionally, dispose of the used test kit and sample properly, following the guidelines, and do not throw them directly into your household garbage.

– Disinfect your hands and relevant surfaces according to guidelines.

– Rapid test results are preliminary, and further examination by a physician is necessary for an accurate diagnosis.

Further Reference:

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