Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) - Wizard Pharmacy

A Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) is a test that checks if you are likely to have COVID-19. This test can be done at home, by yourself.1 Instructions need to be followed carefully.

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DESCRIPTION

RAT test kits are designed to be simple to use and painless. RATs can pick up the COVID-19 virus very early in the infection, sometimes before symptoms appear.2 A RAT involves taking either a sample of your own saliva or nasal swab. This is then placed into a chemical solution to give a result. In most cases, a RAT will provide a result within 15 to 30 minutes.

HOW DO I USE A RAT? Read and carefully follow the instructions included with your RAT. Using a RAT involves taking either a sample of your own saliva or nasal swab. This is then placed into a chemical solution to give a result. In most cases, a RAT will provide a result within 15 to 30 minutes.

NOTE: The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued the recommendation to avoid eating, drinking, smoking, brushing your teeth or chewing gum, for 10 to 30 minutes before collecting saliva for a home-use COVID-19 RAT as it may produce an incorrect result. Refer to the instructions provided with your test kit for the recommended timing.3

WHEN SHOULD I USE A RAT?

You should get a RAT if you:4

• have COVID-19 symptoms
• you have been advised to do so by a health professional

WHEN SHOULD I GET A PCR TEST?

A PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test is another type of test used to diagnose infection with the COVID-19 virus. It is performed in a testing clinic by a health professional who takes a sample, usually by swabbing your throat and both nostrils, and sends it to a laboratory for processing.

Most people will only need to take a RAT to find out if they have COVID-19. PCR tests are usually needed for people who are at risk of severe COVID-19 illness. If you need a PCR test, and you are eligible for Medicare, you can get one free of charge through your GP who can request one for you. Usual fees for GP appointments apply.

MY RAT IS POSITIVE

If you test positive for COVID-19, you should stay at home until your symptoms go away. Contact your GP or health service if you're aged 65 or over, pregnant, have any chronic conditions or have any concerns about your health.

PURCHASED LOCALLY?

WA – Register your result online here or call the WA COVID-19 Hotline on 13 COVID (13 26843).

NT - Register your result online here or call the NT COVID-19 Hotline on 1800 490 484.

PURCHASED INTERSTATE?

ACT– Register your result online here or call 02 5124 6500 between 8am and 6pm.

NSW – Register your result online here or call Service NSW on 13 77 88.

QLD – Register your result online here or call the QLD Covid-19 Hotline on 134 COVID (134 268).

SA – Register your result online here or call the SA COVID-19 Information Line  on  1800 253 787 (8am to 8pm, 7 days).

TAS – Register your result online here or call the Public Health Hotline on 1800 671 738 between 8:00am and 6:00pm.

VIC – Register your result online here or call the VIC Coronavirus Hotline on 1800 675 398.

 

ACCESSING A RAT

Shop RATs online at Wizard now. Click HERE.

 

Sources 

1. Rapid Antigen Test for COVID-19. QLD Govt Australia. Last updated 8 Jan 2022. Available from URL: https://www.qld.gov.au/health/conditions/health-alerts/coronavirus-covid-19/stay-informed/rapid-antigen-test  2. Rapid Antigen Testing information for businesses. NSW Govt. Last updated 10 Jan 2022. Available from URL: https://www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19/business/rapid-antigen-testing-information-for-businesses.  3.COVID-19 rapid antigen self-tests (for home use). Aust Govt Dept of Health. Last updated 02 Feb 2022. Available from URL: https://www.tga.gov.au/covid-19-rapid-antigen-self-tests-home-use 4. COVID-19 testing. Health Direct. Aust Govt Dept of Health. Last updated Sept 2023. Available from URL: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/covid-19/testing 4. Testing for COVID-19. Australian Govt Dept of Health. Last updated 07 Jan 2022. Available from URL: https://www.health.gov.au/health-alerts/covid-19/testing 5. Cook H. Experts urge caution on RAT accuracy as watchdog probes test kit complaints. 7 Feb 2022. Available from URL: https://www.smh.com.au/national/experts-urge-caution-on-rat-accuracy-as-watchdog-probes-test-kit-complaints-20220203-p59tgj.html