Need to Take a Rapid Antigen Test (RAT)?
A Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) is a quick way to test if you are positive for COVID-19, Influenza A & B or Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
RATs are quick to use and return your test result within 10 to 30 minutes. These tests can be done by yourself at home.
Types of Tests Available
There are two types of Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) which involve taking either a saliva sample or a nasal swab. There are many brands of home use tests available and whilst each kit has many of the same components, each one is slightly different.
It is important to follow the step-by-step instructions that are provided with the test as not following these instructions may produce an incorrect result.
For tests that use a saliva sample, it is important you do not eat, drink, smoke, brush your teeth or chew gum for 10–30 minutes before collecting your sample as residue can affect your result. Some saliva tests involve spitting into a tube and others you suck on a swab. Always refer to the instructions for use provided with your test kit.
Other important considerations to keep in mind are:
- Tests must be at room temperature before using them.
- You might need to cough several times or blow your nose before taking the test.
- Be sure to wash or sanitise your hands before getting started.
- Make sure to have a watch or a timer handy as you’ll only have 5 minutes to read your result once it’s ready.
- Before you test, check the expiry date on the box and don’t use the test if expired.
- Don’t take the test cassette out of the pouch until you are ready to test.
- All tests are for single use only which means you can only use each test once and then it must be thrown away.
- Dispose of all the test kit components in the bag provided and then into your household bin. If no bag is provided, you can place the used items from the test into a small plastic bag that can be sealed. This bag should be put into another bag that can be sealed and disposed of with your household rubbish. Tests are not recyclable.
- Wash or sanitise your hands when you are finished testing.
- Rapid antigen self-test kits can be used for both children and adults. Tests for children aged 12-17 should be supervised by an adult, and for children under 12, completed by an adult. Some test kits can’t be used for babies and young children so check the instructions for use provided with the test kit or speak to your pharmacist to see if your test is appropriate for your child.
- If you test positive, whether you have symptoms or not, you should stay at home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most people can manage their illness at home with support from their GP. When you’re not feeling well, it’s important to access healthcare early so that your healthcare team can check in with you and make sure you are supported.
If you are unsure if you should call for help, it is always recommended to call. Your Pharmacist and team are here to support you during this time.
Learn more about how the pharmacy can assist you during this time here - Opens in new tab.
Your Pharmacy 777 Pharmacist is available to help answer any questions you may have and can also recommend products to assist with health and symptom management from home.
Pharmacy 777 is also prepared with services* available to support you at home - Opens in new tab such as Express Delivery, Scripts on File, and online script ordering.
We also encourage all patients to get their annual flu and covid shot - Opens in new tab, a service provided at all Pharmacy 777 pharmacies.
*Please check with your local 777 about services available
Prices may vary. Check with your local Pharmacy 777
No, RATs are no longer available for free.
No, reporting of your results is no longer required.
Related Services
COVID-19
Pharmacy 777 Pharmacists are committed to protecting our community from the spread of the COVID-19. COVID-19 vaccines help to protect our community against Coronavirus by preventing serious illness and death from COVID-19.
