Because the accuracy of the Rapid Antigen Test is 90% close to the RT-PCR detection accuracy of COVID-19, especially in positive cases.
And because the case of “negative results” is more uncertain, for example, the infection is less so it can’t be detected. or incorrectly collected samples causing the need for re-examination
Dr. Supakit Sirilak, MD. Director-General of the Department of Medical Sciences explained that not being detected does not mean there is no infection. The test may need to be repeated in 3-5 days or when symptoms occur. But the shocking thing now is There is information that some people have reused the Antigen Test Kit which, in addition to not showing the actual results. There is also a risk of contamination and infection.
“Because people are now in high demand for the rapid antigen test or antigen test kit, many shops are running out of supplies quickly. along with a negative test result. Repeat testing may be required. but with incomprehension Many people recycle used test kits. Which is very dangerous,” said Dr. Supakit.
Director-General of the Department of Medical Sciences said Approval to unlock the use of COVID-19 testing kits important objectives To increase the chances of accessing the detection of COVID germs, the Antigen Test Kit is considered a medical device. The public will be able to buy it at any pharmacy that is regulated by a pharmacist. Buying online is not recommended. Because it may get a test kit that is of poor quality There may be erroneous test results.
“Using a self-test kit People need to have the right knowledge to use. especially the secretion collection It must be collected as required by the test kit, eg from the nasopharynx. mouth and throat, nasal cavity, or saliva in order to obtain accurate values or results The test kits used must be assessed and registered with Only then,” said Dr. Supakit, adding that the Antigen Test Kit was used for preliminary screening. If the test results are positive. or starting to have symptoms must be confirmed with RT-PCR again, but if the test results are negative May repeat the test in 3-5 days.
“Purchasing a self-testing kit for COVID Should study the details of the testing methodology, interpretation of results from the test package documentation. Before starting the test Incorrect sample collection according to instructions may cause the test results to be inaccurate.”
Dr. Supakit also said that The expiration date of the test kit should be checked. Keep the test area clean. free from contamination Do not open or tear the envelope containing the test cassette. until the start of the test Read the results at the time specified by the test kit. Because reading results too fast or too late may cause errors. most important is Do not reuse the same device or test cassette. Disposal of the test kit must be kept in a sealed bag. and discarded appropriately May be soaked in disinfectant before discarding. to prevent contamination or spread of infection
In addition to self-examination Recently, a COVID-19 testing kit has been introduced. by yourself to use to monitor and screen for infections in the community especially in industrial plants which in the latter It quickly became a cluster of infections. Department of Medical Sciences in collaboration with the Federation of Thai Industries Organize online training for proper and correct use of the Antigen Test Kit. More than 1,000 industry representatives have participated in the training.
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