How Often Should You Be Taking Lateral Flow Tests?

A lateral flow test is a test you conduct on your own to determine if you are positive for COVID-19. It is convenient and most chosen because you can complete it within just a few minutes. The test is ideal if you have symptoms, but it can also work if you are not showing any COVID-19 signs. An updated lateral flow test is essential because they help control the virus's spread as one may not know they have it. Given how convenient it is, you might ask yourself, can I do a lateral flow test every day?

How Often Should You Take the Test?

When it comes to lateral flow test frequency, the government recommends that you take a test at least twice a week. This should be done before visiting friends and family, going shopping, or attending gatherings. If you plan on visiting anyone who is ill, we urge that you take the test before visiting them. The habit of doing regular lateral flow testing helps to contain the spread of COVID-19. Because purchasing lateral flow tests is easy, and there are many different lateral flow tests, like the Healgen test, routine testing should be reasonably easy to embrace.

Taking the Lateral Flow Test

The good thing about taking the lateral flow tests is you can do it yourself, the entire process is straightforward, and you get the results in just 15 minutes. One of the crucial things you need to do before conducting rapid lateral flow is to check the expiration date. Ensure that you do not use a lateral flow test that is outdated. The expiry date is usually on the side or back of the box.  

In most cases, rapid flow tests usually require only a throat and nose swab or nose swab. Depending on the kit you get, the tests might be different, so you must read the instructions carefully. Before you take out the swab, consider the following:

• Ensure you sanitise your hands or wash them with soap and water.
• If the test is without a pre-filled tube, fill it with the provided liquid.
• Put the tube in a tube holder.
• Blow your nose.
• Use a hand sanitiser and wash your hands again.

After completing the test, put the end of the swab in the tube such that it is in the liquid and swirl it as the instructions say, then close the lid. You should then squeeze the liquid from the tube and on the test strip, look at the waiting time on the instructions on your test kit, and wait for the allocated time. Finally, you can have your results. Most people make the mistake of leaving it for longer than the given time, but this has drawbacks, as the results may be affected.         

If you are doing the test on someone else, talk them through the steps and do your best to remain calm. You could also get someone else involved to come and help you out. If you are doing throat swabs, you can use a torch to see their tonsils and let them open wide to make the entire process as easy as possible. Try a lateral test and buy a FlowFlex COVID-19 test today to know your infection status and keep your loved ones safe.