Antigen Testing at Higgins Pharmacy
Covid-19 Rapid Antigen Testing: What You Need to Know
If you haven’t yet been tested for Covid-19, it can be a daunting prospect.
Understanding exactly what is involved will make the process easier and should ease any concerns you have.
There are multiple methods used to test for Covid-19. At Higgins Pharmacy, we provide Rapid Antigen Testing.
The Rapid Antigen Test is completed by taking a sample from your nose using a swab.
The benefit of this type of test is that it can be analysed in our pharmacy rather than being sent to a lab. Because of this, you will get the result of your test within 15 minutes.
PCR tests are slightly different. Firstly, they involve taking a sample from your nose and the back of your throat. The sample is then sent to a laboratory set up to analyse Covid-19 PCR tests and these results are usually returned in 24 to 48 hours.
What Happens During our Antigen Test?
You will be asked to complete a consent form to allow us to carry out the test.
- The test will then begin. Using a swab, the tester will take a sample from inside your nose. Your eyes may water and it may feel uncomfortable for a few seconds.
- This sample taken will then be tested by our Pharmacists for the presence of Covid -19.
What Happens If Your Rapid Antigen Test Result is Positive?
You will get the result of your test within 15 minutes. A positive result means the Covid-19 virus has been found in your sample.
In the event of a positive test it is recommended that you self-isolate. You should then contact your GP to arrange a HSE PCR Covid test.
What Happens If Your Rapid Antigen Test Result is Negative?
If your result is negative, it means the virus was not found in your sample.
Accuracy
It is important to note that Covid 19 Rapid Antigen Tests are not 100% accurate. The tests we use are Roche SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Antigen Tests. These tests have a specificity of 99.2% and a sensitivity of 95.5%. More information regarding the test can be found here.
Health Passport
We can also upload your results to the Health Passport Ap. This Ap will record all Antigen Test Results and Covid Vaccinations you have had. This can be downloaded on the Ap Store or Google Play.
EU Digital COVID Certificate
When you receive a negative Covid Antigen test we will issue you an EU Digital COVID Certificate.
How to book a Covid Rapid Antigen Test
Bookings for our Rapid Antigen Test can be made online;
For Teeling Street please click here
For Market Cross please click here
The Rapid Antigen Test is not for persons with symptoms of covid. If you are experiencing Covid Symptoms please contact your GP to arrange a HSE Covid Test.
Further Information
You can find further information on Covid-19 testing, including Rapid Antigen Testing, on the HSE website. You can also call us on 071 914 2396 with any questions you may have.
