We are seeing a big change in how we find out if we have COVID-19. This is thanks to quick tests you can use at home. The BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test, made by Abbott Diagnostics, is a top choice. You can find it at big stores.
This rapid lateral flow immunoassay lets you test yourself at home. It’s okay for people 15 and older. You’ll know if you have COVID in just 15 minutes. It works as well as tests at the doctor’s office, so you can check your health at home.
The BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test finds the virus in your nose. It’s for people with or without symptoms. It’s a key tool for staying safe.
Key Takeaways
- Rapid results in 15 minutes for individuals aged 15 years or older.
- Authorized by the FDA for non-prescription home use.
- Detects SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein antigen from nasal swab samples.
- Comparable clinical accuracy to professional healthcare settings.
- Empowers individuals to manage their respiratory health at home.
What You Need to Know About the BinaxNOW COVID Test
The BinaxNOW test is known for its simplicity and accuracy in COVID-19 testing. It detects the SARS-CoV-2 virus, giving quick results. These results are key in controlling the spread of the disease.
What Is the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test?
The BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test is a simple test. It finds the SARS-CoV-2 virus’s nucleocapsid protein antigen. This test is easy to use and gives fast results. It lets people test themselves at home or in other places without a doctor’s help.
Studies show that people can use the BinaxNOW test just as well as doctors. It’s 81% sensitive and 99.8% specific, like RT-PCR tests. This makes it a reliable tool.
How the Abbott COVID Test Kit Works
The Abbott COVID Test Kit, or BinaxNOW, comes with a swab, test card, and dropper. It also has easy-to-follow instructions. To use it, you take a nasal swab sample and apply it to the test card.
The test card looks for SARS-CoV-2 antigens. It shows if the virus is there.
FDA Authorization and Intended Use
The BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test is FDA-approved. It’s for people with COVID-19 symptoms in the first 7 days. It’s also for those without symptoms.
The FDA approved it for self-use. This makes testing easier and more accessible. Knowing how to use the BinaxNOW test helps people make smart health choices.
How to Use the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test
In this section, we’ll explore how to use the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test. This tool is key for finding COVID-19 antigens.
Step-by-Step Testing Instructions
First, make sure you have the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test kit. You can find it at CVS and other places. The kit has a test card, nasal swab, and reagent.
1. Open the test card and place it on a flat surface.
2. Put the nasal swab into one nostril until you feel resistance. Then, rotate the swab 5 times.
3. Do the same thing in the other nostril with the same swab.
4. Open the reagent bottle and add 6 drops to the top hole of the test card.
5. Put the swab into the top hole and rotate 3 times. Then, press the swab tip against the bottom of the test card.
Reading and Interpreting Your Results in 15 Minutes
The test results come in 15 minutes. The BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test card shows the result. A control line means the test is valid.
If you see a second line (T line) with the control line, the test is positive. If you only see the control line, it’s negative.
For more details on reading your results, check the official FDA guidelines.
Testing Frequency Guidelines
If you’re feeling sick, use the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test twice over three days. Make sure there’s at least 48 hours between tests. This helps find the virus better.
If you’ve been exposed to COVID-19 or have symptoms, test as recommended. This ensures you get accurate results.
Conclusion: Accuracy and Limitations of the BinaxNOW Test
The BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test is a reliable tool for finding COVID-19. It works best when used right and as directed. At CVS, the test kit shows high sensitivity, with an 87% rate in people with symptoms.
But, its sensitivity drops to 71% in people without symptoms. This means it might miss some cases, leading to false negatives. It’s important to know this, as it can happen, mainly in those without symptoms.
To get accurate results, follow the testing steps in the kit. Also, know how often to test. This way, people can use the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test at CVS to spot COVID-19 and take care of their health.
FAQ
What is the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test?
The BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test is a quick test made by Abbott Diagnostics. It finds SARS-CoV-2 protein in nasal swabs. It’s for people to use themselves.
How accurate is the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test?
This test is 81% sensitive and 99.8% specific. It’s as good as RT-PCR tests in finding COVID-19.
Who is the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test designed for?
It’s for anyone 15 or older, with or without symptoms. It’s good for many people.
How do I use the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test?
Follow the steps in the kit. This includes taking a nasal swab, adding it to the test card, and waiting 15 minutes for results.
How often should I test using the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test if I have symptoms?
If you’re sick, test twice in three days. Wait at least 48 hours between tests for best results.
What are the limitations of the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test?
It’s very accurate but not perfect. It might miss some cases. Always use it right and know its limits.
Is the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test authorized for home use?
Yes, the FDA has approved it for home use. It’s easy to use at home.
How long does it take to get results from the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test?
Results come in 15 minutes. This helps you make quick decisions.
Can I purchase the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Self Test at CVS?
Yes, you can buy it at CVS. It’s easy to get for those who need it.
References
Government Health Resource. Evidence-Based Medical Guidance. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/70/wr/mm7003e3.htm
