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Regular coronavirus testing at home is playing an important role in the fight against the disease, as Omicron cases continue to climb.
Indeed, these tools are now thought to be key as they are helping people decide whether to socialize over the Christmas period.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describes on its site how testing is "critically important" to help reduce the spread of the virus as they offer both "convenience" and "fast results."
The U.S Food and Drug Administration (FDA) told Newsweek it believes at-home diagnostic tests "play a critical role in the fight against COVID-19."
A spokesperson said: "The FDA has been monitoring tests authorized to detect SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, for potential effects of genetic variation on test performance.
"The agency is currently collecting data for the Omicron variant and will continue to communicate information about whether and how it affects authorized tests as it becomes available."
The CDC added: "If you need to be tested for COVID-19, consider using a self-test that can be performed at home or anywhere else. Consider keeping self-tests at home or where you may need them."
Self-tests can also be called a "home test", an "at-home test", or an "over-the-counter test."
How To Get At-Home COVID-19 Tests
The FDA has authorized the use of scores of SARS-CoV-2 antigen diagnostic tests.
These rapid antigen tests are the most common type of at-home testing, involving the individual swabbing their nostrils or back of the throat. Studies suggest these are the most accurate methods, in addition to being capable of returning confirmation within 15 minutes.
Although these are available from most local pharmacies, stocks do periodically run low, with regulatory hurdles and bulk orders purchased by large organizations early on in the pandemic blamed.
Most of the test kits require payment upfront, though some offer insurance options or financial assistance.
When to Consider Self-Testing
Testing yourself could be a good idea if you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms or have potentially been exposed to someone with the virus.
However, the CDC states that testing can also be a useful tool in itself, as "using a self-test before gathering indoors with others can give you information about the risk of spreading the virus that causes COVID-19."
The organization adds: "This is especially important before gathering with unvaccinated children, older individuals, those who are immunocompromised, or individuals at risk of severe disease."
A positive result indicates the person who has taken the test probably is infected, meaning they must isolate from others and inform close contacts of the news as soon as possible.
Negative results suggest the person who has taken the test is likely not infected and may be at low risk of spreading the disease to others—although this is not for certain.
The CDC writes: "Repeating the test will increase the confidence that you are not infected.
"Performing serial tests, meaning two or more tests over several days with at least 24 hours between tests—with one test as close as possible to the event you will attend—improves the reliability of testing and reduces your risk of transmitting the disease to others even further."
Should you think you have received an error in your at-home test results, the CDC recommend contacting the manufacturer and consulting with your primary care provider.
