Rapid Antigen Tests Explained

Written by ATOM | Aug 19, 2022 5:04:32 AM

With the spread of COVID-19 and the Omicron variant, rapid antigen testing is gaining popularity with many companies to guarantee the safety of their employees, customers, and business. This new normal, however, brings its own set of challenges. With supply shortages and difficulties finding reliable suppliers, businesses are regularly searching for trustworthy sources to buy rapid antigen tests. The team at ATOM is ready to quote, source and deliver available rapid antigen tests as soon as your business needs them.

What is a Rapid Antigen Test?

A rapid antigen test (RAT) is a self-testing method used to quickly examine an individual for COVID-19. The tests are essential to reducing the spread of the virus as they can detect COVID in the early stages of infection, sometimes even before any symptoms appear. The rapid antigen test involves a swab sample being placed in a chemical solution for 10 to 20 minutes before a result is given. There are two different sample types used in rapid antigen testing; saliva and nasal.

The COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test (Saliva) is a single-use test kit to detect COVID-19 in human saliva. This test is designed to be taken at home by the individual experiencing symptoms indicating they may have contracted the COVID virus. It requires the individual to collect their own saliva sample for examination within the first 7 days of symptom onset.
The COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Test (Nasal) is a single-use test kit used to identify COVID in human mucus. This test is designed to be taken at home by the individual experiencing COVID-like symptoms and requires them to collect the mucus sample by swabbing the back of their nose for examination. For the most accurate results with this test, it must be conducted within the first 7 days of symptoms onset.

Rapid Antigen Tests (RAT Tests) available to buy from ATOM

If you're after an easy but highly accurate rapid antigen test, ATOM has access to the V-Chek™ COVID-19 Saliva Test (Lollipop Test). The test is pain-free with an easy and reliable antigen test using a saliva swab and is suitable for ages 2 and above. The test card is intended to detect proteins, unique to COVID-19, in the saliva sample to provide rapid results in just 10 minutes.

How To Perform A V-Chek™ COVID-19 Saliva Test

Due to the variety available, every government-approved rapid antigen test (RAT) contains detailed instructions on how to best perform that specific test. Instructions can vary and must be followed carefully to ensure accurate results. All V-Chek™ rapid antigen tests are single-use only.

The steps below show how easy it is to perform the testing procedure yourself with the V-Chek™ COVID-19 Saliva Test (Lollipop Test).

Step 1
Wash your hands using a combination of soap and water for at least 20 seconds before and after the test. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitiser with at least 60% alcohol.

Step 2
Move the swab on the lollipop stick backwards and forwards on the front and sides of your mouth for 90 seconds.

Step 3
Remove the lollipop swab after 90 seconds, it should be soft and have absorbed a substantial amount of saliva. The indicator on the back should have turned blue.

Step 4
Secure the lollipop swab onto the test cassette by pushing it down until it 'clicks'. Check and read the results after 10 minutes, but NOT after 15 minutes.

Interpreting Your V-Chek™ COVID-19 Saliva Rapid Antigen Test Results

Check and read the results after 10 minutes, but NOT after 15 minutes.

A line should appear next to the 'C' on the results window, if a line does not appear, the test is invalid. In the case of an invalid test, dispose of the test and ensure you are following the instructions correctly before retesting with a new test kit. If a line appears next to the 'T' on the test card, you have tested positive for COVID-19.

What's the Difference Between a RAT and PCR Test?

The two key differences between a RAT and a PCR test is the examination process and time frame for results. A rapid antigen test (RAT) is a quick self-testing method used to quickly identify COVID-19 from the comfort of your own home. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test involves visiting a clinic where a professional will take a nasal/throat or saliva sample. This sample is then sent to a lab for testing. A PCR test will provide a more accurate reading.

	Rapid Antigen Test	PCR Test
Sample Type	Nasal/Throat or Saliva	Nasal/Throat or Saliva
Result Time	10-15 minutes	24-48 hours*
Testing Location	Home	Clinic
Accuracy	Less accurate than the PCR test	More accurate than a rapid antigen test

*Result time may vary depending on your location.

Steps To Help Reduce The Spread of COVID-19

COVID-19 is primarily transmitted from one person to another by respiratory droplets. Respiratory droplets are formed when someone coughs, sneezes, or talks. They easily travel in the air and can remain on surfaces.

Below are a few useful tips and products to help you reduce the spread of COVID-19 to keep your workers and customers safe.

Correctly wear respiratory protection
Respiratory protection, or masks, provides a barrier to help prevent respiratory droplets from travelling from one person to another, resulting in a decrease in virus transmission.

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Practice good personal hygiene
Remember to always wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, use hand sanitiser where possible, and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.

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Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces
Regularly clean and disinfect the surfaces you use often (e.g. workstations, desks etc.) with appropriate janitorial products. This will help your workspace remain free from bacteria.

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If you’re still unsure of what rapid antigen test to purchase or you just have any questions, get in touch with your local ATOM branch today.

Disclaimer: For the latest COVID health advice and updates please visit www.health.gov.au/health-alerts/covid-19. Always read the label, warnings and directions for use before purchasing COVID-19 rapid antigen tests. RAT tests may be used to detect possible infection with SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19). Negative test results do not completely exclude infection of COVID-19. Therefore, face masks, social distancing and good hygiene practices are recommended at all times. Positive test results or symptomatic people require immediate confirmatory testing using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. Always supervise children when testing.

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