Antigen testing for COVID-19
The COVID-19 antigen test uses a swab to take a sample from your nose. The sample does not need to go to a lab.An antigen test is also called a rapid antigen diagnostic test (RADT).
An antigen test detects viral antigens (proteins based on the surface of the virus) of the Sars-Cov-2 virus (the virus that causes Covid-19) within a swab taken from a person’s nose and throat. The detection of Sars-Cov-2 antigens indicates that the person being tested may have an active Covid-19 infection.
The test can tell you whether you are currently infected with the virus and therefore able to transmit the virus to others. With this information you can then safely isolate from friends and family and seek further testing or medical advice if necessary.
We have sourced testing kits from Romed (Holland) and ViaDiag (Single Tests). Our antigen test boasts an accuracy of over 95% – 98% .
This is a test you take to give you an indication of whether you are currently infected with the Sars-Cov-2 virus (the virus that causes Covid-19).
HPRA guidance on Covid tests: https://www.hpra.ie/homepage/medical-devices/covid-19-updates/in-vitro-diagnostic-(ivd)-tests-for-covid-19
HSE – Interim guidance on the use of Antigen Detection Tests (ADTs) in the public health system in Ireland: https://www.hpsc.ie/az/respiratory/coronavirus/novelcoronavirus/guidance/laboratoryguidance/Guidance%20on%20use%20of%20ADT%20in%20the%20public%20health%20system.pdf