Rapid antigen tests (RAT)
About Rapid antigen test
Rapid antigen tests, or RATs, are usually performed using a front of nose swab and identify the presence of particular proteins on the virus’s outer region, such as the spike protein.
This differs from the RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) test, which identifies genetic material called RNA and is already commonly used in New Zealand. Nasopharyngeal swabs, a combination oral and nasal swab (oropharyngeal anterior nares), or saliva are used to obtain samples for RT-PCR assays.
RATs necessitate a greater amount of virus in the sample than conventional COVID19 testing procedures. As a result, RATs are less sensitive to detecting instances, particularly in asymptomatic patients or those who are still in the early stages of infection. A confirmation test by RT-PCR swab performed by a healthcare expert is required after a positive result in any RAT.
What is the best time to undergo a rapid antigen test?
The majority of people should undergo a rapid antigen test initially, especially if they have symptoms or are in touch with someone who has COVID-19.
You can receive a PCR test if you have symptoms or are a household or home-like contact who has to be tested and can’t get a fast antigen test.
If you want to quickly verify if you have COVID-19, for example, before attending a crowded event, social gathering, or visiting vulnerable persons, you can utilise a rapid antigen test.
Rapid antigen tests can be utilised as part of a formal surveillance programme, such as one run by your school or employer.
What is the best time to have a standard PCR test?
You can receive a PCR test if you have symptoms or are a contact of someone who has COVID-19 and can’t get a fast antigen test.
If you don’t have any symptoms and aren’t a contact, but your quick antigen test comes back positive, we recommend doing a PCR test to confirm the result. If you have symptoms or are a contact, we do not encourage this.
If necessary for other reasons, and you have been notified directly.
Procedures for using a testing equipment in general
Individual devices may differ, thus the Ministry of Health recommends following the manufacturer’s instructions for the kits purchased. The Ministry of Health has published procedure examples to show how the test kits are used in general.
The Ministry of Health has issued guidelines for workplaces that perform on-site quick antigen screening. The Interim Guidance contains regulations that apply to fast antigen test kits, standard operating procedures, and supply conditions under the Principles of Supply.
When utilised by patients with symptoms or who have been into contact with COVID-19, rapid antigen testing are quite accurate.
If you don’t have any symptoms and aren’t a contact, but your quick antigen test comes back positive, we recommend doing a PCR test to confirm the result. If you have symptoms or are a contact, we do not encourage this.
You are a case if you get a positive result. You must do the following:
For cases, use the following checklist: Report your findings, isolate yourself for seven days, and notify your contacts. You must also segregate your home connections for seven days.
Note: This is a new step: reporting your results. On the afternoon of January 7, the reporting form and hotline will be operational. Stay isolated and report on January 7th if you have a positive result to report.
If you don’t have any symptoms and aren’t a contact, but your quick antigen test comes back positive, we recommend doing a PCR test to confirm the result. If you have symptoms or are a contact, we do not encourage this.
