How to use a rapid antigen test

Rapid antigen tests are used to test for COVID-19. An antigen test can be carried out at home and does not need to be sent to a lab for results. When carried out properly, antigen tests can be a quick way to find out if you have COVID-19.

In this article:

• Who should use a rapid antigen test?
• When to use a rapid antigen test
• How do I use an antigen test kit?
• Understanding antigen test results

Who should use a rapid antigen test?

People under the age of 55 are no longer required to take an antigen test if they develop symptoms of COVID-19, unless they fall into certain categories. However, if you have symptoms of COVID-19, it is important to self-isolate until 48 hours after your symptoms resolve. You should also wear a medical or respirator mask if you have to be around other people, but try to avoid all contact with others.

How to access free antigen test kits

You can only access free antigen tests through the HSE if:

• You are under 55 years of age with symptoms of COVID-19 and you are absent from work because of COVID-19 and you wish to make a social welfare claim
• You are a healthcare worker who is a household close contact, does not have symptoms of COVID-19 and has not had COVID-19 in the past 3 months

If you fall into either of these categories, you can book a free antigen test kit from the HSE.

If you do not fall into those categories, you can purchase antigen test kits from pharmacies and some supermarkets. Only use a test that has a CE mark on the packaging. A CE mark means the product meets European safety standards and performance.

When to use a rapid antigen test

There are times when you might decide you want to take an antigen test. This might be a precaution, or it might be because you’re experiencing symptoms. Here are some scenarios where you might decide to take an antigen test.

Experiencing symptoms of COVID-19

If you are under the age of 55, you are no longer required to take an antigen test if you have symptoms.

If you have symptoms of COVID-19, it is important to self-isolate until 48 hours after your symptoms resolve. You should also wear a medical or respirator mask if you have to be around other people, but try to avoid all contact with others.

If you choose to take an antigen test anyway, you will need to purchase your own antigen test kit from a pharmacy or shop. Only use a test that has a CE mark on the packaging. A CE mark means the product meets European safety standards and performance.

Carrying out activities

If you have plans to visit friends or family, attend an event, or visit a crowded space, you might decide to take an antigen test before carrying out these activities.

If you choose to do this, you will not be eligible for free antigen tests from the HSE, but you can purchase test kits from pharmacies and other shops. Only use a test that has a CE mark on the packaging. A CE mark means the product meets European safety standards and performance.

It’s best to take the antigen test an hour or less before you plan to carry out the activity.

Antigen tests for travelling

Some countries will require proof of a negative COVID-19 test in order to enter their borders. If you are planning on travelling, find out what the requirements for entry are. Some countries will only accept a PCR test result, while others will accept a professional antigen test result. This means the antigen test must be carried out by a professional and cannot be one you did yourself at home.

Find out more about travelling during COVID-19.

How do I use an antigen test kit?

It is important to read the instruction leaflet before carrying out an antigen test. 

A COVID-19 antigen test kit should contain a sterile swab, a liquid known as a buffer, a tube to hold that liquid in, a test card and detailed instructions. 

To use an antigen test, you will need to prepare the buffer liquid in the tube. You must use the sterile swab to take a sample from both of your nostrils. You then place this swab into the buffer for the amount of time stated on the instruction leaflet before closing the lid on the tube. The last step is to put some of the buffer/swab sample mixture into a well in the antigen test card and wait.

The HSE have created a video on how to carry out an antigen test at home.

Before carrying out an antigen test, it is very important to read the instructions carefully.

How many antigen tests should I use?

Antigen tests are more accurate if you do a few tests on different days.

How long does it take to get an antigen test result?

You will have the result of your test within 15-30 minutes, depending on the brand you’re using.

Understanding antigen test results

The steps you take next depend on the result you get from your test.

What should I do if my test result is negative?

If your result is negative, it means that the virus was not found in your sample. However, in order to ensure the result is accurate, it is important to do a series of tests over a number of days. It is important to continue to follow health advice even if your test is negative.

What should I do if my test result is positive?

If any of your antigen tests are positive, you will need to self-isolate until 48 hours after your symptoms resolve. You should also wear a medical or respirator mask if you have to be around other people, but try to avoid all contact with others.

What happens if my test result is invalid?

An invalid test means the test did not return a positive or negative result. If any of your antigen tests are invalid, use another test right away.