The COVID-19 self-tests are on sale in our country since last March and are another help, which can be very valuable, to fight the pandemic. Whenever used correctly, its simple access, rapid results, possibility of large-scale use and use in conjunction with other tests, whenever necessary, will contribute to the early detection of infection cases and to implement control measures that reduce transmission of the disease in the community. So, knowing what these tests are, what is identified, when the test can be done, the care to be taken in carrying it out, the meaning of the results and what to do with it, is part of what we must know to make a correct decision if we think carry it out and to contribute to the control of the disease. Access to COVID-19 self-tests is very simple: Can be purchased by people over 18, at an affordable price; They are over-the-counter, that is, they do not need a medical prescription; The sample collection for the test can be done by the person himself, or by someone who helps him, does not require the intervention of a health professional; The test can be done at home or at another location of your choice. However, in addition to this simplicity, these tests also have specific indications, which must be respected. Otherwise, the results may be meaningless. What are COVID-19 self-tests? The self-tests currently available are rapid diagnostic tests, also known as rapid antigen tests. The designation of self-tests means that they are intended to be done entirely by the user , from the collection of the sample to the reading and interpretation of the results. Self-tests are sold in unit packs (self-test kit), which include everything needed to perform the test. These self-tests do not need any laboratory equipment or specific training. What are the differences between self-tests and the other rapid tests that already existed for COVID-19? For COVID-19 there are currently two main types of rapid tests: Rapid diagnostic tests , or antigen tests, which indicate, in an appropriate clinical and epidemiological context, whether or not SARS-CoV-2 infection is present at the time the test is performed; Rapid antibody tests , which indicate whether antibodies are present that the body has developed against the virus due to exposure to SARS-CoV-2, either by natural infection or by vaccination. The COVID-19 self-tests currently available are rapid diagnostic tests or antigen tests. For those who do a COVID-19 self-test, the main difference from other rapid antigen tests that already existed is that the sample does not need to be collected by a healthcare professional . The sample is also obtained with a nasal swab, but the nostril region used is more anterior (less deep) and does not require the intervention of a trained health professional. It can be yourself to get the sample or someone you ask for help. On this date, COVID-19 self-tests available on the market are performed with a sample obtained by nasal swab . Several other types of tests are under development, for example with saliva samples. Proper use of the COVID-19 self-test Rapid antigen tests, such as the COVID-19 self-test, have a high sensitivity in the acute phase of the infection , that is, they identify positive cases in the phase when the virus replicates quickly and the probability of existing in the body in high amounts is great. This coincides with the period up to 5-7 days after the onset of symptoms . These tests are also very useful for repeated testing of people at risk, to quickly identify positive cases and isolate them. Thus, the COVID-19 diagnostic self-test can be useful when: There are symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 , which started less than 5-7 days ago; There are risk contacts with positive cases or presence in potential risk situations . However, in these cases, just a negative test result does not mean that there was no infection. Tests are useful if they are repeated periodically. Precautions to take when performing the test Read carefully the information leaflet that comes with the test; In addition to taking the test, do not forget other precautions that are very important: If you have purchased a test and you are not going to perform it immediately, keep it in accordance with the manufacturer instructions in the package leaflet; Do not use tests after the expiration date or if its appearance has changed from the date of purchase; Do not open the test or other components packages if you are not going to do the test; When doing the test, clean and disinfect the table where you will place the various components when performing the test and wash your hands thoroughly before opening the packages; Never reuse the tests or the other components in the same packaging. Strictly follow the instructions for performing the test; Respect the time indicated on the package leaflet to read the result of the self-test. The results of the COVID-19 self-test The responsibility for communicating the results of the COVID-19 self-tests rests with each one of us who carry it out. Compliance with the instructions regarding the communication of results is essential to identify contacts, implement measures and reduce the transmission of the disease. COVID-19 self-tests can yield 3 results: Positive result Indicates that infection is very likely and that all precautions already known for these situations should be adopted. Whenever there is a positive result, the Linha de Saúde 24 ( 808 24 24 24 ) should be contacted. Once the result is interpreted by health professionals considering the clinical and epidemiological context, a new confirmatory test may be prescribed, which in this case will be a laboratory test by PCR . Negative result Indicates that infection is unlikely. However, especially if there are persistent symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 or if they do appear, a negative result alone does not exclude the infection. Thus, guidance should be obtained from the family doctor, from the Linha de Saúde 24 (808 24 24 24) or, in the Hospital da Luz network, by calling LUZ 24 ( 217 104 424 ) and all the usual protection and hygiene measures must be maintained. Invalid result COVID-10 self-tests may have invalid results, which is detailed in the accompanying information leaflet. In these cases, the result cannot be considered, and a new test must be performed . Remember that: Self-tests can be very important in helping to control the COVID-19 pandemic . Doing it respecting proper instructions and complying with the results communication according to the stipulated is the contribution of each one of us for the safety of all. Sources Autoteste COVID-10 - Regime excecional. Folheto informativo. 2021 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. COVID-19 at home testing. European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control. Considerations on the use of self-tests for COVID-19 in the EU/EEA . 2021. Author : Betânia Ferreira More information and advice of Hospital da Luz about the novel coronavírus COVID-19 epidemic . The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
