The COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test (Nasopharyngeal Swab) is a rapid chromatographic immunoassay for the qualitative detection of SARS-CoV-2 antigens in nasopharyngeal swab specimens from individuals with suspected SARS-CoV-2 infection in conjunction with clinical presentation and the results of other laboratory tests.
Results are for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 Antigens. An antigen is generally detectable in upper respiratory specimens during the acute phase of infection. Positive results indicate the presence of viral antigens, but clinical correlation with patient historyand other diagnostic information is necessary to determine infection status. Positive results do not rule out bacterial infection or co-infection with other viruses. The agent detected may not be the definite cause of disease.
Negative results do not preclude SARS-CoV-2 infection and should not be used as the sole basis for treatment or patient management decisions. Negative results should be treated as presumptive and confirmed with a molecular assay, if necessary for patient management. Negative results should be considered in the context of a patient’s recent exposures, history and the presence of clinical signs and symptoms consistent with COVID-19.
The COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test is intended for use by trained clinical laboratory personnel.
The COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test (Nasopharyngeal Swab) is a qualitative membrane-based immunoassay for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 Antigens in human nasopharyngeal swab specimen. SARS-CoV-2 antibody is coated in the test line region. During testing, the specimen reacts with SARS-CoV-2 antibody-coated particles in the test. The mixture then migrates upward on the membrane by capillary action and reacts with the SARS-CoV-2 antibody in test line region. If the specimen contains SARS-CoV-2 Antigens, a colored line will appear in test line region as a result of this.
If the specimen does not contain antigens to SARS-CoV-2, no colored line will appear in the test line region, indicating a negative result. To serve as a procedural control, a colored line will always appear in the control line region, indicating that the proper volume of specimen has been added and membrane wicking has occurred.
STORAGE AND STABILITY
Store as packaged in the sealed pouch at room temperature or refrigerated (2-30°C). The test is stable through the expiration date printed on the sealed pouch. The test must remain in the sealed pouch until use. DO NOT FREEZE. Do not use beyond the expiration date.
SPECIMEN COLLECTION, TRANSPORT AND STORAGE
Specimen Collection
1. Insert a sterile swab into the nostril of the patient, reaching the surface of the posterior nasopharynx.
2. Swab over the surface of the posterior nasopharynx.
3. Withdraw the sterile swab from the nasal cavity.
Specimen transport and storage
Specimens should be tested as soon as possible after collection. If swabs are not been processed immediately, it is highly recommended the swab sample is placed into a dry, sterile, and tightly sealed plastic tube for storage. The swab specimen in dry and sterile condition is stable for up to 8 hours at room temperature and 24 hours at 2-8°C.
Allow the test, extracted specimen and/or controls to equilibrate to room temperature (15-30°C) prior to testing.
1. Exact QR Code from the QR code card for the specific information of the test. Use only QR code card provided inside the test kits.
2. Remove the test cassette from the sealed foil pouch and use it within one hour. Best results will be obtained if the test is performed immediately after opening the foil pouch.
3. Invert the specimen extraction tube and add 3 drops of the extracted specimen (approx.100μl) to the specimen well(S) and then start the timer.
4. Wait for the colored line(s) to appear. The results should be read with the Citest LF Reader at 15 minutes. Do not interpret test results visually.
INTERPRETATION OF RESULTS
Results read by the Citest LF reader. The result of positive or negative for SARS-CoV-2 antigens is determined by the LF reader. Result could be exported to excel or PDF
