Multiple brands of rapid COVID-19 tests that can be taken at home without a doctor's prescription are finally available over the counter.
Why it matters: Rapid at-home COVID-19 tests put the power of diagnostics in the hands of individual consumers, allowing anyone to surveil themselves regularly for the coronavirus. But getting the most out of them requires a new paradigm around diagnostics — and ultimately, driving down the cost.
What's happening: Abbott's BinaxNow rapid test is available in retail pharmacy chains like Walgreens and CVS, as well as online, at a suggested price of $23.99 for a two-test kit.
- Quidel's QuickVue rapid test also comes in a pack of two tests and is available online now for about $30.
- Australia-based Ellume's rapid test will be available in stores and online by the end of May for $38.99.
Context: All of the rapid tests — which can deliver results in as little as 10 to 15 minutes — were developed months ago, but were only recently given emergency use authorization by the FDA.
How it works: Rapid tests work differently than PCR tests, which require visiting a clinic or testing site and giving a nasal swab that is then analyzed by a lab for the genetic material of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
- Rapid tests instead look for the presence of a viral antigen — a protein on the surface of the virus that elicits an immune response — that indicates an active infection.
What they're saying: "We see a transition to asymptomatic testing with these diagnostics to get people back to work and school," says Douglas Bryant, CEO of...