COVID-19 needs no introduction to the current world. We all have been there where the Movement Control Order (MCO) started in 2020 and more than one MCO for sure throughout the year until the Recovery MCO (RMCO) in 2021. These years were the hardest for everyone especially those directly affected by the virus and have symptoms of COVID-19. Fortunately, at least for now, COVID-19 is under control. Although this does not mean that there is no case at all in the country, we can breathe better and live normally knowing that COVID-19 is less likely to be spread as it was back when it first started. This could be from the vaccine rules that help to reduce the severity of COVID-19 and provide protection against the virus. This does not only lead to low numbers of the infection but also reduces the number of people getting severely ill by the virus.
Remember when the only way of testing for the virus is to get the nose poke with the stick and send it to the laboratory? Worst, you may need to pay quite a price for it? Thankfully, we can now test ourselves using COVID-19 test kit at home. These tests initially were less reliable when it is available but with more technology and study done, one can be sure that there are many covid test kit in the market that are very reliable and trusted in screening for COVID-19. It is worth noting that the test kit is a screening device. You may need to do further tests especially if the test result may be at fault and you or people around you do not have symptoms at all. All test results from using the test kit at home should be confirmed with RT-PCR test by the authorised laboratory. The question now is, how would you know that the test kit is good enough to detect the virus?
The easiest way is to check for the validity of the test kit by logging in to the official website of the Medical Device Authority provided by the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH). In this website you can clearly see the brand of the test kit and if it is approved by the MOH. By knowing this alone, you can be sure that the test kit you are using is the right test kit to be used for screening COVID-19.
Remember, the test kit at home should be used as directed by the manufacturer. Read the label carefully and closely follow the instructions stated before using the test kit. This helps to minimise potential error that could interfere with the true and real result. To further minimise potential error, you should always wash your hands before and after collecting the nasal specimen or saliva for the test. Avoid drinking, eating or smoking 30 minutes before using the test kit. Do make sure that the test kit has all the contents and is not expired. It is best to clean the area and surfaces where the test kit and specimen may be in contact with. Last but not least, please dispose of the specimen and kit properly in a plastic bag and into the trash bin. By doing all this, you are not only getting the accurate result but also minimise possible contamination that could spread to other people.
Now that you know how to pick the right test kit and the best way to use the test kit, you probably wonder what to do next when the result is out. Here are guides on what to do after using COVID test kit at home:
1) Positive result- This means that the test has detected the presence of virus in the body and you do have an infection. You should stay at home for at least 7 days and isolate yourself from others (self-quarantine). You may end the quarantine earlier if the test kit shows negative results on the 4th day of the quarantine. If tested positive, you must continue to quarantine until the 7th day. No other test is needed after quarantine is complete. During the whole quarantine period, you should watch for symptoms such as fever, cough, fatigue, body aches, headache, sore throat, stuffy nose, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. If symptoms get worse or get very sick because you have other medical conditions, please contact your healthcare provider as soon as you can. Warning signs such as breathing difficulty, persistent pain or feeling pressure in the chest, inability to wake up or become alert and pale or blue tinge skins, lips or nail, should be considered as an emergency. People with warning signs should be getting immediate medical care by visiting the emergency department promptly.
2) Negative result- This means the test did not detect the presence of virus but it does not necessarily mean there is no infection. Repeat the test in 24 to 48 hours. Only multiple negative results should warrant you that you are not infected by COVID-19.
In essence, COVID-19 test kit at home should only be used as a screening device. If you are unsure if the test kit is really reliable, you can always ask a doctor for further tests that can be done. It is important to always take preventative measures against COVID-19 by wearing a face mask in a crowded area or when meeting a sick person or you yourself is sick. Practising hand hygiene and cough etiquettes can further prevent infections of viruses.