Each antigen test kit contains a test reading box, a swab, a reagent vial, a closure cap and instructions for use, that should be read carefully. On sale at Rs 300, these rapid antigenic test kits are imported by PNL, a subsidiary of the Leal group.
The kits will be available in pharmacies across the island as from Monday 28th June. In a press release issued on Wednesday 24th June, PNL stated that the test which is carried out by nasal, nasopharyngeal or oropharyngeal swab, should however be performed by a healthcare professional. The kit that will be sold in pharmacies also makes it possible to detect the different known variants of Covid-19. Unlike the PCR test which locates the genome of the virus, the antigen test seeks to detect proteins known as antigens. The function of these latter is to stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies after infection with the Coronavirus.
This method enables anyone to know if a person is infected with Covid-19 or not within a few minutes. However, for the test to be effective, it must be performed within four days of the onset of symptoms. That is, during the contagious phase when the viral load is highest as stated PNL in its press release. More so, the importer declares that this rapid antigenic test is a diagnostic orientation tool and that in case of a positive result, the confirmation by PCR test is strongly recommended.
