Several at-home COVID-19 tests have been given FDA EUA approval for use as a rapid at-home self-usage test which produce results within 10-15 minutes. Currently, these at-home self-tests use technology measure a particular viral antigen. Many of the at-home kits use lateral flow immunoassay (LFIA) technology. On the other hand, there are also home test kits available which require specimen collecting at home and mailing or dropping off the collected specimen to a lab site for the test to be performed. The self-testing at-home kits are typically easy to use and produce a qualitative test result in 10-15 minutes. The costs for most at-home test kits vary from approximately $20 to $55.
Clinical studies for several of the at-home self-test kits have shown that the sensitivity and specificity can vary depending on whether an individual is symptomatic or asymptomatic. For symptomatic individuals when the viral load can be high, these at-home tests can be more accurate than when someone is asymptomatic and may have a lower viral load. Therefore, false-negative results can result if an individual is tested too soon after being exposed to COVID-19 or when someone has no symptoms.
The major advantages to at-home self-testing are comfort, convenience, and rapid test results within 10-15 minutes. The major disadvantages include the possibility of false-negative results stemming from improper or incomplete specimen collection and testing too early in the course of the infection. Another disadvantage may be the need to do repeat testing or serial testing if it is too early in the infection.
It is important to stress that individuals who test positive for COVID-19 using an at-home self-test kit, should notify and follow up with their healthcare provider as well as to follow appropriate CDC guidelines for quarantine and isolation. In addition, an individual testing positive should notify anyone who has been in close contact to take proper steps for testing and quarantine to help limit the spread of the infection.
