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What is a Lateral Flow Test Home Kit?
A lateral flow test home kit is a rapid antigen diagnostic test for Covid-19. This handheld test kit, sometimes referred to as a rapid antigen test kit, analyzes the Covid-19 specimen on-site without the need for laboratory analysis. The test uses lateral flow technology to detect antigens or proteins that are specific to the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
There are different types of antigen testing kits. While some use swab samples from both the nose and throat, others, such as the nose-only lateral flow test, use nasal samples. Whichever lateral flow testing kit you’ll be using, the results of the test are available in minutes.
Where can I Buy Lateral Flow Tests in the UK?
Are you wondering where you can buy a lateral flow test home kit? At CovidTests, we sell Covid-19 lateral flow tests at an affordable price. When you buy lateral flow tests from us, you get quality home test kits that provide quick, reliable results in minutes.
At CovidTests, we sell two types of Lateral Flow Tests (LFTs), the FlowFlex and the Healgen lateral flow Covid self-test kits. These two self-testing kits have been approved by the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and NHS to test and give accurate Covid-19 results outside clinical environments, making them convenient for home use.
Their portability also makes them suitable for use in business premises, schools, and community test centers. Besides, our test kits are easy to use and give quick and accurate results. Both self-kits are further available as 1, 5, 20, and 25 test packs. To make a lateral flow test order for any of the 2 rapid antigen kits, visit the CovidTests website or contact us today!
How does a Lateral Flow Test Work?
Step 1
Mix the nasal swab with the buffer to create the test sample.
Step 2
Mix the nasal swab with the buffer to create the test sample.
Step 3
Wait for about 15 minutes to check the T-Line's color, which varies depending on the analyte amount.
Step 4
The sample reaches the nitrocellulose membrane, creating a colored strip on the control line (C-Line) to confirm the test strip is working. Check the cassette after the 15-minute procedure for results.
Why you Need to Buy Lateral Flow Test Home Kit?
Lateral flow home testing kits give instant results which help quickly identify infectious persons and isolate them.
Advantages of using a lateral flow test home test kit include:
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No Specialized Training/Equipment
Easy-to-use tests that don't require special training or lab equipment, making them ideal for home testing and reducing virus spread.
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Portability for Anywhere Testing
Small and portable self-testing kits that can be used at schools, workplaces, or on-the-go.
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Ease of Sample Collection
Utilizes a shallow swab for sample collection, making it suitable for children or individuals with limited nasal or throat fluids.
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Rapid Results
Provides results in minutes, reducing waiting time and anxiety for those suspecting Covid-19. Swift results enable immediate isolation.
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Reduced Unnecessary Isolation
Minimizes unnecessary isolation for individuals with Covid-like symptoms who are not infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
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Asymptomatic Testing for Early Intervention
Minimizes unnecessary isolation for individuals with Covid-like symptoms who are not infected with the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
How does the Lateral Flow Test Differ from an Antibody Test?
The short answer is no; a Covid-19 rapid antigen test isn’t the same as an antibody test. An antibody test is used to determine if one has had a Covid-19 infection, while an antigen test helps detect if one is currently infected with Covid-19. Here are the main differences:
| Aspect | Lateral Flow Test | Antibody Test |
| Purpose | Detects current Covid-19 infection (antigen) | Detects past Covid-19 infection (antibody) |
| Detection Target | Specific Covid-19 antigens in a sample | Covid-19 antibodies in the blood sample |
| Sample Collection | Throat or nose fluid sample | Blood sample |
| Use Case | Identifies current infection with Covid-19 | Verifies past exposure to Covid-19 |
| Timing of Detection | Immediate results | Detection antibodies after recovery |
| Infection Status | Positive result indicates current infection | Positive result indicates past infection |
| Immune Response | Detects antigens triggering antibody production | Detects the presence of Covid-19 antibodies |
Can I Buy Lateral Flow Tests for Self-testing?
Yes, lateral flow tests can be used for self-testing. Rapid antigen tests are a valuable tool as they are used to test for Covid-19 infection anywhere. Unlike a PCR test that may take days to return your results, a lateral flow test gives you results in 15-30 minutes. A lateral flow test can also be used to test asymptomatic people, and you can also use this test regardless of your vaccination status.
Does a Nose-only Lateral Flow Test Give Correct Results?
Lateral flow tests can provide accurate results but may vary depending on the test brand, symptoms, and how they are conducted. They are recommended for asymptomatic individuals. PCR tests are more sensitive and considered the gold standard. If you test positive with a rapid antigen test, confirm with a PCR test. Always follow instructions to avoid false negatives.
Lateral Flow Test Result Guidelines
Lateral Flow Test Result guidelines cover both positive and negative test outcomes, offering clear steps to follow in each scenario to ensure safety and proper health measures.
| If Positive: | If Negative: |
| Self-isolate immediately. The people you live with should also self-isolate. You also need to alert people you came into contact with 2 days before your test so that they can also get tested. | To confirm the results, take two rapid antigen tests 48 hours apart. |
| Take a confirmatory PCR test within 48 hours to confirm the LFT accuracy. You can order a home PCR test via an online service or book an appointment at a local testing site. | Note that even if the test is negative, always follow Covid-19 government guidelines such as social distancing, hand washing, and wearing a mask in public. |
| Take good care of yourself and keep in touch with a medical doctor in case of any warning Covid-19 symptoms: shortness of breath, persistent chest pains, confusion, or loss of speech and mobility. | |
| Avoid being in public places and always wear a mask if you must be around people. |
In the case of an inconclusive lateral flow test result, you should consider retaking the test. If the result remains inconclusive, it's advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare professional or testing center for further evaluation or alternative testing methods.
Buy Lateral Flow Test from Covidtests!
Get your Covid-19 lateral flow test kit from CovidTests! At CovidTests, we sell various antigen tests, including the Healgen and FlowFlex Covid lateral flow self-tests. Our rapid antigen kits are tested and validated by Public Health England and the UK government. Each test kit offers quick and reliable results in under 30 minutes. In addition, our compact test kits are incredibly easy to use and come with a detailed instruction guide. Order lateral flow tests for business or home use from us today and get free delivery for orders over £40.
