What is a Flowflex Antigen Rapid Covid Lateral Flow Test?
A lateral flow test is a really quick and easy way of finding out if you’ve got COVID-19. This Flowflex Antigen Rapid Covid Lateral Flow Test contains everything you need to test yourself for the virus and you’ll have your results in as little as 15 minutes. The test is easy to perform by yourself, just swab your nose and throat, put the swab into the pre-filled vial of the test solution, use your test strip and wait for your results. Each kit includes everything you’ll need for a single test with no extra equipment necessary.
How do lateral flow tests work?
A lateral flow test, commonly referred to during the pandemic as a ‘rapid test’, is a simple device that can be used to test for a range of medical conditions, including COVID-19. The most common lateral flow test is a simple pregnancy test stick.
These types of tests contain a tiny absorbent pad on which your sample will be placed, and a window where your result will be displayed. The sample will flow through the test and the strip of paper inside will change colour to display either two lines for a positive result, or one line for a negative result.
How to use a lateral flow test
Taking a lateral flow test for COVID-19 usually involves taking a nose and/or throat swab. That swab is then dipped into the testing solution and dripped onto the absorbent pad - this produces the reaction that will reveal the result.
Once you’ve dripped the solution onto the absorbent pad, the device should be left on a flat surface for 30 minutes. Once that time has passed, you can check whether you’ve got a negative result (one line next to C) or a positive result (two lines - C & T).
Why is rapid testing important?
Lateral flow testing in asymptomatic people is an extremely effective way of slowing the spread of COVID-19 in the community. One in four people who have COVID-19 don’t show any symptoms - by regularly testing ourselves, we can be sure that we aren’t unknowingly carrying the virus and spreading it to those more vulnerable than ourselves.
Lateral flow testing is most effective in those with a high viral load. A high viral load refers to someone who has a lot of the virus in their system - these people are much more likely to spread COVID-19 to others.
Storage information
Store in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight. Always keep out of reach and sight of children and do not use this product after the expiry date that is stated on the packaging.