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COVID-19 antigen tests: What you need to know
From Department of the Taoiseach; Department of Health ; Health Service Executive
Published on
Last updated on
From Department of the Taoiseach; Department of Health ; Health Service Executive
Published on
Last updated on
Antigen tests are also known as 'lateral flow tests'. They are the tests you buy in shops and pharmacies and can use at home.
When using an antigen test, you use a swab to take a sample from your nose. Unlike a COVID-19 PCR test, the test sample does not have to go to a lab. You usually get your result in 15 minutes.
The information on this page is about using antigen tests you buy in a retail outlet yourself.
If you are a healthcare worker and you are a household close contact, use antigen tests if you:
If you are a healthcare worker and you have symptoms of COVID-19, get a PCR test.
Current arrangements for schools', early learning and school-aged care facilities antigen testing programme remain in place.
Antigen tests are not recommended for children under the age of 4.
Follow these instructions:
There are more tips on how to use an antigen test on the HSE website.
If your antigen test gives you a positive result you need to self-isolate (stay in your room) and follow these instructions.
If you have a negative ('not detected') antigen test result, report your negative antigen result online. This helps the HSE to learn more about antigen testing.
A negative test does not mean that you do not have COVID-19. Continue to follow the public health advice on how to protect yourself and others.
If you have symptoms of COVID-19, continue to self-isolate until you've had no symptoms for 48 hours.