What is a COVID-19 Lateral Flow Rapid Test Kit for self-testing?

A COVID-19 Lateral Flow Rapid Test Kit for self-testing is a single-use COVID test that detects SARS-CoV-2 antigens in anterior nasal specimens.

Always read and follow the lateral flow test kit patient information leaflet provided.

COVID-19 is a highly infectious disease caused by the coronavirus. This is passed from person to person mostly through saliva, and it is advised that if you show any symptoms you should isolate a do a PCR test. This will determine whether or not you are positive for the virus, but you can use a lateral flow test regardless of symptoms. Read the latest government COVID-19 advice and book a PCR test if you have a positive lateral flow.

Do I need a lateral flow test to travel?

Always check the latest government updates to see if you need to test before and after traveling, as these rules may be different depending on where you are traveling from and to. These tests are for HOME USE only and cannot be registered for travel, they are intended simply for your own assurance to know if you should get a PCR test following a positive lateral flow test.

What is the difference between a lateral flow test and a PCR test?

A key difference between lateral flow tests and PCR tests is lateral flow tests are used to find out if you have been exposed to the virus, even if you don’t have symptoms. PCR tests are used to check for a COVID infection if you do have symptoms or after a positive lateral flow test.

A PCR test has to be taken to a laboratory for analysis, so these results take longer. A self-test kit will give you results within 15-30 minutes (depending on the brand you use). PCR is the most accurate way of testing for COVID-19, but lateral flow home test kits are a great way of confirming infection or giving you peace of mind before trips, outings, or visiting friends.

Is the lateral flow test the same as the rapid antigen test?

Lateral flow tests are also referred to as rapid antigen tests or SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Rapid Test.

Are these the same tests that are used by the NHS?

The lateral flow tests we provide work in the same way as tests you may receive from the NHS. The tests are for personal use and cannot be registered for travel or submitted to e-Surgery to confirm a test result. They are for your own home use and reference only.

Can I use these tests before travelling?

As a private service, we cannot register or confirm test results for traveling in and out of the UK. You will have to seek an alternative healthcare provider for this service. The lateral flow test provided is the same as what you would be given by the NHS, please be aware you may receive a different brand that functions in the same way.

How does a lateral flow test work?

You can find full details in the lateral flow home test instructions that will come with your test. Always follow the advice of the specific product you have ordered, as some brands may have slight differences in use.

Wash your hands thoroughly before use and check the contents of your home test kit
Read the instructions provided and check the expiration date on the box
Remove the packaging of the ‘test cassette’
Remove the foil on the extraction buffer tube, and place this carefully in the perforated circle on the outside of the box. This will keep the solution still and prevent any spillage
Open the swap at the stick end, avoid touching the swap itself
Gently insert the swap into one nostril, to a depth of 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch
Firmly rub the swab in a circular motion around the inside wall of the nostril 5 times. Take approximately 15 seconds to collect the specimen. Be sure to collect any nasal drainage that may be present onto the swab
Repeat this in the other nostril
Remove the swap and place it in the extraction buffer tube and swirl for 30 seconds
Then rotate the swab 5 times while squeezing the tube
Remove the swap whilst squeezing the tube
Attach the dropper, and gently squeeze 4 drops into the sample well of the cassette
Wait for 15 minutes to get your results, any result taken after 30 minutes is invalid. Dispose of your test safely in the bin.

How do I know if my lateral flow test is positive?

If only the control line (C) and no test line (T) appear, this means that no SARSCoV-2 antigen was detected.

If both the control line (C) and test line (T) appear, this means that the SARS-CoV-2 antigen was detected.

If no control line (C) or just the test line (T) the test is invalid and should be taken again.

What if my lateral flow test is negative but my PCR is positive?

If you have a negative lateral flow but a positive PCR test, you should follow the current government guidance and isolate.

Can I register my lateral flow test online?

As we offer private testing, these tests cannot be registered through the NHS. Although the kits are identical and sourced from the same suppliers, if you are required to register your kit online, you will need to order a rapid flow test from the UK government website.

How Quick Are Results from a Lateral Flow Test?

You will get results after 15 minutes, but results taken after 30 minutes are invalid.

Do I need a lateral flow test?

Lateral flow tests are recommended by the NHS for people to complete on a regular basis to ensure to check that they are.

Can I order these tests online?

Yes, you can order lateral flow tests online through e-Surgery.

Where can I find out more?

If you would like to know more about testing for COVID-19 we recommend visiting the NHS website or GOV.UK.

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