With the results available in just a few minutes, it can be much more convenient than going to a testing centre.
But you may have questions about using a home test kit around accuracy, cost and what to do if you get a positive test. Read our guide to Covid home test kits to know the answers to these common questions and more.
How do home test kits work?
The type of test you use at home is called a rapid antigen self-test. It works by detecting the proteins or antigens spread in your body by the virus.
You use them by taking a swab from inside your nostril, putting the swab inside a container so that it reacts with a liquid, and then pouring a few drops of the solution onto a test card for your result.
You can read your result in minutes.
You’ll find full instructions inside your test pack.
How do I know whether a home test kit for Covid-19 is genuine?
The easiest way to know whether a home test kit is genuine is to order from a reputable company.
For home test kits that you can rely on, take a look at the FeverMates collection.
From humble beginnings, our business has grown from strength to strength — and our reputation has too! We now supply our health-related products all over the world, thanks to the quality of our products and our customer service. This makes us your go-to choice for reliable and genuine home test kits.
How reliable are home test kits?
While PCR tests are recognised as being the most accurate, home test kits are still a good choice if you need a quick result.
They can reliably detect Covid-19 in the acute phase of infection — that is just before you show symptoms and during the week after your symptoms first appear.
Follow the instructions carefully to get the most accurate result.
When should I test at home?
Self-test kits are useful when:
- You can’t get to a testing centre for a PCR test
- You need to know quickly whether you’re negative or positive, such as just before going to visit elderly relatives
- You need to test regularly because of your job
Can I use a home test kit on my child?
Yes, most rapid antigen home test kits are suitable for children aged two and over.
You should check your kit’s instructions to know for sure if it’s suitable for your child’s age group.
What can’t a home test kit tell me?
If you’re using a home test kit, antibodies might be something you want to know about. Be aware that a Covid-19 home test can only detect whether you have the infection and can’t tell you whether you have antibodies or whether someone has been vaccinated.
What should I do with my Covid test results?
If you get a positive result, the latest advice is that you should isolate at your home for at least seven days.
Individual states or territories may need you to report your result or have a PCR test to confirm it as well. You can check on your local health department’s website to know for sure.
If your symptoms are mild, you can treat them at home. Rest, drink plenty of fluids and take over-the-counter medicines like ibuprofen and paracetamol for pain relief.
You should also ensure that you have a reliable thermometer so you can monitor your temperature. If you feel hot and uncomfortable, try a cooling patch for relief.
If you have tested positive and are living with chronic conditions or are pregnant, you should contact your GP. You should also contact them if your symptoms worsen and you are worried about your health.
You or your caregiver should call triple zero (000) if you need urgent medical help; for example, if you have chest pain, breathing difficulties or collapse suddenly.
If your result is negative, look out for any symptoms and test again if you suspect you might have Covid-19.
Keeping your family in good health and worry-free
Home testing kits have made it easy and affordable to know whether you have Covid-19.
Now that you have read our guide to home testing, you should feel confident about using a kit for an accurate result.
Keep a supply at home so that you can reach for one whenever you need to know your Covid-19 status. Take a look at our online shop for home test kits and other wellbeing-related products to help keep your family in good health and worry-free!