The COVID-19 pandemic, once the only thing we could talk about, is now in a global decline. With a very healthy dose of caution, we now can allow ourselves a small sigh of relief. Not for the future, (because if this virus has taught us anything, it’s that it is unpredictable), but for the present, and finally allowing ourselves a bit of normality in the shape of summer fun.
With that said, we shouldn’t neglect the basic precautionary measures that protect us, our loved ones, as well as those around us. First and foremost: Testing.
COVID-19 rapid antigen testing gives us an immediate indication of COVID-19 contagion status and allows us to plan our lives accordingly — both for our own sake and the sake of others.
Here are the instances when you should test yourself for COVID-19.
When you have symptoms
Indeed, it sounds very obvious, but should be mentioned. As COVID-19 and flu symptoms overlap, when you do experience symptoms — like headache, fever, congested nose, sore throat — you should test to rule out COVID-19 or, if you test positive, to isolate and protect others.
Before you meet with people at high-risk for COVID-19
Testing is about protecting others as much as it is about protecting yourself. As we all know, we can be COVID-19 positive and not show symptoms; either because we are asymptomatic or because we are at the very early stages.
In order to protect those who are more vulnerable to the virus (mainly elderly people and those with conditions that put them at a higher risk for COVID-19), we should test ourselves before coming into contact with them. It takes a tiny effort on our part — self-testing is an easy and quick act — that can save the lives of others. It’s a no brainer!
Before and after you travel
When traveling internationally to and from the US, you need to adhere to various testing rules and regulations of each country — most require a negative test regardless of your vaccination status. For domestic flights the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that people who are not fully vaccinated test before flying.
Regardless of regulations and recommendations, it is common sense to test before and after you travel. Before, to protect others and reschedule your trip if you test positive. And after, since traveling can bring you around a high number of people you don’t normally interact with. Once you get back, test yourself to make sure you didn’t bring an unwelcome souvenir back with you.
After you recovered
It might sound counterintuitive, but if you are recovering with symptoms that are subsiding after you had contracted the virus, a sure way to know if you are no longer contagious is an antigen test. Again, this is clearly for the sake of others, so you wouldn’t spread the virus!
How to get tests
The best way to get at-home COVID-19 rapid antigen tests is to go to our website and place an On/Go order! With On/Go, you can be confident you’re choosing the right test; our tests have been rated #1 by the ECRI.
Don’t forget! If you have health insurance, you may be eligible for up to eight free at-home COVID-19 tests a month. Check for your insurance provider on our website and fill out the form to submit for reimbursement.
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