How it works and where to buy COVID-19 self-test

Considered an alternative for a person to know whether to see a doctor after noticing symptoms or having had contact with someone who has been infected, the first self-test of COVID-19 was approved by Anvisa during the day yesterday (17).

The health agency points out that this is another way to stop the pandemic, as the self-test allows the person to know whether to maintain isolation in the event of a positive result and to look for a specialist.

But what changes in relation to the test RT PCR? Which one is more effective? Does the negative test serve as proof of travel or work certificate? Thinking about answering these and more questions, we developed this special article. check it out right now!

Coronavirus self-test in Brazil

The 17th of February 2022 was marked by an important advance in our fight to combat the pandemic of COVID-19. After authorizing the sale of self-tests on January 28th, the Anvisa will now allow the CPMH (Commerce and Industry of Medical-Hospital and Dental Products) make the self-test of COVID-19 for buying and selling on the general market.

For this to have happened, it was necessary for the company to present technical requirements, which include “usability and risk management to suit the use by lay people”, according to the statement.

A call center to ask questions and provide clarification was created and whoever buys the self-test Novel Coronavirus Antigen Self-Test you can get in touch by phone 0800 940 8883. A booklet explaining step by step how to test the CPMH should also be used shared on the Anvisa website.

To receive approval, it is important that the product presents instructions for use, storage and disposal, as well as everything must be illustrated so that people with little knowledge can do the self-test as safely as possible. The expiration date must also be printed on the box in a clear and simple way.

Which self-tests were approved in Brazil?

Since authorizing the sale, the Anvisa has already received 67 registration requests for sale and ten of them have already been denied. A Ppanel with status (which is still pending update) has been made available to the population. Besides the CPMH receive authorization to make the sale, other companies already have the same guarantee of Anvisa.

A Eco Diagnostica Ltd, which works with tests for humans and animals, will be able to sell the COVID Ag Detect throughout the national territory and the items for the first diagnosis will be produced in our country.

Another company that sells the same model of COVID-19 self-test is Kovalent do Brasil Ltda: SGTi-flex Covid-19 Ag - SELF-TEST can already be found in Brazilian pharmacies. Another option that is distributed by the Kovalent do Brasil Ltda, but produced in Merunas UAB, can also be found in pharmacies in Brazil is the SGTi-flex COVID-19 Ag - SELF TEST.

A Biosul Diagnostic Products closed a partnership with the Chinese laboratory Hangzhou Alltest Biotech Co. and already has authorization to sell the COVID-19 Ag self-test (Nasal Swab) in Brazil.

O COVID Ag Oral Detec Self-Test, which is produced and distributed by Eco Diagnostica Ltd, was the first test approved by ANVISA that performs the analysis through the patient's saliva. Instead of inserting the swab into the nose, it is necessary to swab the inner parts of the cheek and then wait for the result within 15 minutes.

This is the complete list of self-tests and companies approved by the Anvisa until June 30, 2022. The link to is included in the prices:

Name	Type	Manufacturer	Price
Novel Coronavirus Antigen Self-Test	Nasal Swab	CMPH	R$67,90
COVID Ag Detect	Nasal Swab	Eco Diagnostica Ltd	R$66,53
COVID Ag Oral Detec Self-Test	Nasal Swab	Eco Diagnostica Ltd	R$110,00
SGTi-flex Covid-19 Ag - SELF-TEST	Nasal Swab	Kovalent	R$66,53
SGTi-flex COVID-19 Ag - SELF TEST	Nasal Swab	SugenTech Inc	R$ 64,90
COVID-19 Ag self-test	Nasal Swab	Hangzhou Alltest Biotech Co., Ltd.	R$59,90
PANBIO COVID-19 Ag RAPID TEST DEVICE	Nasal Swab	Abbot Rapid Diagnostics Jena GMBH	R $ 1.280,00 (box of 25 units)
Rapid Test Kit for SARS-CoV-2 Virus Antigen Detection Self-Diagnosis	Nasal Swab	BEIJING LEPU MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD – CHINA, PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC	R$49,00
COVID-19-CHECK-1 ANTIGEN® Self-Testing	Nasal Swab	Vedalab	R$1.280,00 (box of 20 units)
Celer Wondfo SARS-CoV-2 Ag Rapid Test	oral swab	GUANGZHOU WONDFO BIOTECH CO., LTD. – CHINA, PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC	R$280,00 (box of 20 units)
SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Nasal Self Test	Nasal Swab	SD BIOSENSOR – SOUTH KOREA	Not yet available in the Brazilian market
ANTIGEN SELF-TEST FOR COVID G-TECH	nasal swab	OSANG HEALTHCARE CO., LTD. - SOUTH KOREA	R$33,00
Rapid Basall Antigen Covid-19 Self-Test	nasal swab	LMG LASERS – COMERCIO, IMPORTACAO E EXPORTACAO LTDA – BRAZIL	R$27,90
Covid-19 Nutriex Nasal Swab Antigen Self-Test	Nasal Swab	HANGZHOU SINGCLEAN MEDICAL PRODUCTS CO., LTD – CHINA, PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC	R$4.950 (box of 20 units)
Rapid SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Test (Nasal Swab)	nasal swab	HANGZHOU ALLTEST BIOTECH CO., LTD. – CHINA, PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC	Quotation required
Rapid SARS-CoV-2 Antigen Test (Nasal Swab)	nasal swab	GENRUI BIOTECH INC. – CHINA, PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC	R$110,90
Home Rapid Test AUTOBIO SARS-CoV-2 Ag	nasal swab	AUTOBIO DIAGNOSTICS CO., LTD. – CHINA, PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC	R $ 1.300 (box of 20 units)
SARS-CoV-2 ANTIGEN SELF-TEST	nasal swab	IN VITRO DIAGNOSTICA LTDA - BRAZIL	Quotation required
HOME TEST COVID-19 AG	nasal swab	GUANGZHOU WONDFO BIOTECH CO., LTD – CHINA, PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC	Quotation required
2019-nCoV Ag Test Autotest	nasal swab	INNOVITA (TANGSHAN) BIOLOGICAL TECHNOLOGY CO., LTD. – CHINA, PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC	R$89,00
BIOSYNEX COVID-19 Ag+ BSS	nasal swab	BIOSYNEX SWISS SA – SWITZERLAND	R$ 306,90 (box of 25 units)
GeneFinder COVID-19 Ag Self Test	nasal sawb	OSANG HEALTHCARE CO., LTD. - SOUTH KOREA	Not yet available in the Brazilian market
C.TESTE COVID-19 Self-Test	nasal swab	HI TECHNOLOGIES LTDA - BRAZIL	schedule the necessary
COVID-19 ALERT Ag Self-Test	nasal swab	WAMA PRODUTOS PARA LABORATORIO LTDA - BRAZIL	R $ 547,50  (box of 25 units)
MyTest COVID-19 Ag Nasal	nasal swab	LABTEST DIAGNOSTICA S/A - BRAZIL	R$300,00 (box of 20 units)
SELF-TEST 2019-nCoV	nasal swab	GUANGZHOU WONDFO BIOTECH CO., LTD – CHINA, PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC	Quotation required
MedTeste Autotest COVID-19 Ag MedTest	nasal swab	HANGZHOU BIOTEST BIOTECH CO., LTD, – CHINA, PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC	Quotation required
Next SARS-CoV-2 Ag	Nasal Swab	VYTTRA DIAGNOSTICOS SA	Quotation required
Next Covid-19 Ag	Nasal Swab	VYTTRA DIAGNOSTICOS SA	R$45,99
BIOCLIN FAST COVID-19 Ag Autotest	nasal swab	QUIBASA QUÍMICA BÁSICA LTDA	Quotation required
CONFIRM COVID Autotest for detection of SARS-CoV-2 Antigen in Nasal sample	nasal swab	ALAMAR TECNO CIENTÍFICA LTDA - BRAZIL	Quotation required
Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) Antigen Test	nasal swab	BEIJING HOTGEN BIOTECH CO., LTD. – CHINA, PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC	Not yet available in the Brazilian market

How does the COVID-19 self-test work?

In the case of the self-test, a cotton swab is used to extract the mucosa from the nose, but the result is displayed in a maximum of thirty minutes. The result of a test RT PCR It takes an average of one day to complete.

This type focuses on searching for viral antigens in a person's body system, which can be explained as the structure of the virus that causes our body to produce antibodies against the virus. COVID-19.

COVID-19 Antigen Test or RT-PCR? What is the best?

The big difference between the test RT PCR is the type of component parsed for the result to be displayed, as well as the wait time. See the details.

RT test-PCR

Indicated by OMS and considered the best option for us to know if a person has been infected by COVID-19, this type of test is focused on detecting the presence of the virus's genetic material in a person's body, which we also call RNA.

A test like this is always carried out by specialized laboratories due to the need for a more in-depth analysis. The result has a detection potential close to 100%. Another difference is the time for the result to be released: for experts to have a reliable answer, it is necessary to wait a day.

old testeno

The antigen test has a detection potential of 95% and in this case, the focus is on “finding” the viral antigens (Coronavirus proteins) that cause the creation of antibodies against the disease.

Removal of nasal mucosa also by inserting the swap (the big swab) of a person and this same object is inserted into a reagent. The result is published in up to 30 minutes, but in about 15 minutes there is an answer.

The type of test approved by the Anvisa it is the antigen and it will be easier to know if you should isolate yourself and of course, see a doctor in case of a positive result.

There is no consensus in the health community on which test would be the best, but experts trust the test more. RT PCR due to a deeper analysis being carried out. But know that the results of both options must be taken into account in the diagnosis.

What are the deadlines for taking a COVID-19 test?

Much is said about the time that we should carry out the test and the treatment begins in the case of a positive result. It is indicated that the test RT PCR be performed between the 3rd and 7th day after symptoms appear or in case of contact with a person who has tested positive.

As the self-test allows the result to be processed at the collection site, this alternative can be considered a screening that must take place “between the 1st and 7th day of the beginning of symptoms of COVID-19 such as fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose (popularly known as a runny nose), headaches and body aches”, according to the Anvisa.

A OMS remember that the symptoms of a person with COVID-19 can begin to appear within 7 days of contact with someone who has tested positive for the disease. But the period of 48 hours is more than enough for a first test to be carried out, according to Alberto Chebabo, president of Brazilian Society of Infectious Diseases. If the test is done before then, a low viral load in a person's body could indicate a false negative test.

Sometimes, the person takes a test thinking it's not Covid, that it may be released, and in reality that's because there hasn't been time for that test to be positive yet. So, therefore, we recommend that she wait at least 48 hours to perform this test.

Alberto Chebabo, president of Brazilian Society of Infectious Diseases

In any case, always remember that a way to protect you and those you love is to opt for social isolation until the period of manifestation of the virus passes and you can return to carrying out all activities normally.

How long is the COVID-19 isolation period?

In early 2022, the Ministry of Health do Brazil decreased the quarantine time with the type of diagnosis. If a person is not experiencing respiratory symptoms and fever, they must stay at home for at least 7 days.

But if from the 5th day a negative test (RT PCR or rapid antigen test) is found, isolation can be canceled before the seven-day deadline if the person does not have fever or respiratory symptoms.

In the case of people who are still testing positive during the 5th day of isolation, it will be necessary for them to stay away from contact with society for 10 days, with the count valid from the day of the onset of symptoms. Release happens as soon as symptoms are not so apparent. Anyone who is at home for 7 days and presents a negative test after this period, just wait another 24 hours for them to do all their activities again.

If after ten days a person is not in pain, fever, breathing difficulties and other symptoms of COVID-19, it is enough to present a negative test for the isolation to be completed. O Ministry of Health Brazilian recalls that this is a way of separating infected people from healthy people, since the period of ten days is the limit for the virus to be passed on to someone else. You can check all the details in the Epidemiological surveillance made available by Ministry of Health.

Already talking about the recommendation of the OMS, the international body indicates that people who have tested positive for the disease, but are asymptomatic, stay at home for 7 days. Anyone who has suspected COVID-19, but cannot be tested, should stay at home for 10 days. The WHO recommendation of isolation for those who tested positive and are showing symptoms is still 14 days.

Step by step to perform the COVID-19 self-test

As complex as it may seem, the self-test of COVID-19 was developed to be done at home and can be done by anyone. The first step is to wash your hands to avoid possible contamination, so remember that as soon as you get home.

Another important point is in choosing the place where the test will be done. It is recommended that the test be carried out away from healthy people so that in case of sneezing, you do not end up passing the disease.

With everything ready, it's time to remove all the items from the box so that the test can be carried out. When removing the tube with the reagent liquid from the box, the manufacturer advises the user to be careful that nothing spills.

Start by opening the package so that everything is prepared. When opening the swap package, be careful not to touch the wide end (with cotton). You can also remove the seal from the collection tube. Remember to blow your nose before taking the test, as excess nasal mucus can interfere with the result.

Now that you're ready, it's time to insert the nasal swap into your nose by a maximum of 2,5 cm (no need to force the swab in) and rotate 10 times.

When you finish this step, it's time to put the swap in the tube with reagent and rotate it 10 times. When removing the large cotton swab from the tube, it is important to pinch the edges so that the liquid does not leak.

Once this is done, close the drip cap and take the test card. It is necessary to drip 4 drops of the reagent into the smallest hole (circular shaped) on the card and wait 15 minutes.

There are four possible outcomes:

• Line formed in region C (Control): negative result;
• Line formed in regions C and T (Test): positive result;
• Line formed only in region T (no marking in region C) or without line presentation: invalid result. 
• No lines formed in one of the regions: invalid result.

If a person receives an invalid result, it is recommended that a second test be performed. Test disposal must be done in a separate bag and the use of 70% alcohol is indicated for cleaning the site. A video showing the step by step was shared by CPMH, check out:

Does the self-test replace going to the doctor?

Experts remind you that the self-test of COVID-19 that was approved by Anvisa should be used as a way of knowing if you should see a doctor to have the infection confirmed.

Do not take this as a dismissal of a positive self-test result. COVID-19, but rather as a warning that you should consult a specialist as soon as possible. In case of confirmation of infection, you will receive a certificate of absence from work.

A Anvisa also points out that the self-test serves as an answer to individual doubts about a possible infection and the negative result cannot be used as an international travel passport (but companies that travel domestically accept the antigen test).

You still need the Traveler's Health Declaration (DSV) that proves that you are not infected and that your vaccinations are up to date. All care is little and pay attention to this detail so you don't miss your flight.

Many countries in Europe carry out the sending of self-tests to citizens' homes as a way to allow screening without the need to leave the house, but the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) emphasizes that the use needs to be planned and implemented gradually.

What do you think of the implementation of the COVID-19 self-test? tell us Comment!

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Sources: Agency Brazil l CNN Brazil l G1 (1) l G1 (2) l Power 360 l Galileo l Examination l Ministry of Health l Reuters l CPMH l Kovalent l Agency Brazil l Anvisa