COVID-19 testing has been a crucial element in fighting coronavirus and keeping people safe. It has also helped with seeking treatment sooner for those who may have tested positive for the virus. While sites are set up in various places in communities to receive testing, nothing is simpler than being able to do it yourself at home. No transportation needed.
Easy to use
This over-the-counter COVID-19 test uses a nose swab and works for both symptomatic and asymptomatic individuals. If you’re looking for a quick and easy over-the-counter test for COVID-19, the Quidel QuickVue test is a good choice. Whether you are showing symptoms yet or not, this test will work for anyone ages 2 and up. The test is easy. You simply swab your nasal passage, add it to the supplied solution tube, place the strip inside the tube, and read the results that will appear in 10 minutes. Get some kits for everyone in the family, or to keep on hand. Detailed instructions are included if you have questions.
Buy: Quidel QuickVue at-Home OTC COVID-19 Test Kit
FDA-authorized
Whether or not you have symptoms, this COVID-19 test is 98 percent accurate in detecting SARS-CoV-2 within 30 minutes. For those who want peace of mind, the Lucira Check It COVID-19 Test Kit is the first FDA-authorized single-use PCR-quality test kit for home use. PCR quality is considered the gold standard in molecular diagnostic testing. It is 98 percent accurate in detecting SARS-CoV-2 and works on several different regional variants as well. It includes a shallow nasal swab method that can be used for anyone ages 2 and up. Results show up within 30 minutes, and you can receive a downloadable result on your phone.
Buy: Lucira Check It COVID-19 Test Kit
Avoid the swab
This COVID-19 test kit is authorized by the FDA for emergency use and detects the presence of viral genetic material. The DxTerity COVID-19 Saliva at-Home Collection Kit is a great alternative for many people who want to avoid going the nasal swab route. The kit has everything you need to collect and send a saliva sample for laboratory testing. You only need to provide a small sample of saliva, and step-by-step directions are given to ensure the collection is done properly. Results are surprisingly fast, too. After shipping your sample, your results are available within 24 to 72 hours from when they are received at the lab. This kit offers you a non-intrusive way to get answers.
Buy: DxTerity COVID-19 Saliva at-Home Collection Kit
When you have to fly
For people who need a COVID-19 test before flying, this test does the job for you and comes airline-approved. Are you heading on or returning from vacation? When you need a COVID-19 test quick so you can get on that plane, the empowerDX at-Home COVID-19 Nasal PCR Test is your answer. Also PCR quality, this test is approved for anyone ages 3 and up, and your results will arrive within 48 hours. The test is authorized for emergency use by the FDA, and the participating labs that provide results are all certified. It’s easy to use in the convenience of your own home. Perform a shallow nasal swab, place in the kit, and ship.
Buy: empowerDX at-Home COVID-19 Nasal PCR Test
Talk with a healthcare provider
This COVID-19 Home Test Kit is designed to be used by individuals 18 or older. It’s easy to use and provides your results online. This PCR-approved kit comes with an easy-to-use nasal swab and collection materials, and even a prepaid express return label, which is a nice feature. Just take the test, send it out with free shipping, and view your results online within 24-48 hours. We like how it gives you the option to speak to a healthcare provider if you receive positive results. You don’t need to be symptomatic to take this test. Sometimes it gives you peace of mind just having answers.
Buy: Simplicity COVID-19 PCR Home Testing Kit
Mary O’Connell is a contributing writer to Florida Travel & Life, an online brand that inspires active, affluent travelers, providing them with insider information on discovering the best of Florida. Informative and engaging, the website showcases travel destinations, arts and cultural venues, vibrant dining scenes, recreational activities, the great outdoors and the revitalized real-estate market. Mary loves the beach and mountains, and all the accoutrements that come with them.
