Another At-Home COVID-19 Test Gets Green Light

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an emergency use authorization (EUA) for an at-home COVID-19 test.

The FDA authorized the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag Card Home Test for use at home with a prescription. This is the third test the FDA has approved to be used completely at home.

This new COVID-19 test is to be used in individuals who are 15 years or older and whose health care providers suspect that they might have COVID-19. The test is to be used within the first week of the onset of symptoms.

According to the FDA, this test may also be used in children who are 4 years old or older if the required nasal swabs are collected by an adult.

A telehealth provider has prepared step-by-step instructions for users to show them how to properly collect samples and understand the results. This provider will also report the test results to health officials.

“FDA continues to authorize COVID-19 tests that will give more Americans access to greater testing flexibility and options,” said FDA Commissioner Dr. Stephen M. Hahn in a press release. “The BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag Home Test will have a significant manufacturing footprint with the potential to support testing for millions of people.”

The FDA noted that anyone who receives positive COVID-19 test results should self-isolate and seek immediate medical care. If you have COVID-19 symptoms but receive a negative test result, you may need to undergo additional testing. Talk to your health care provider about your next steps.

If you believe you have COVID-19 or have been exposed to someone who does, contact your health care provider to determine the next steps to take.