The Food and Drug Administration has approved the first at-home test for Coronavirus.
The test kit includes everything needed to collect a nasal swab sample, like a specific Q-tip-style cotton swab, but the FDA says this swab should not be changed out with any other cotton swabs. Everything in the kit is exactly what is needed.
The test is made by LabCorp, and due to limited quantities, it will first be made available to healthcare workers and first responders.
“Throughout this pandemic we have been facilitating test development to ensure patients access to accurate diagnostics, which includes supporting the development of reliable and accurate at-home sample collection options,” said FDA Commissioner Stephen M. Hahn, M.D. “The FDA’s around-the-clock work since this outbreak began has resulted in the authorization of more than 50 diagnostic tests and engagement with over 350 test developers. Specifically, for tests that include home sample collection, we worked with LabCorp to ensure the data demonstrated from at-home patient sample collection is as safe and accurate as sample collection at a doctor’s office, hospital or other testing site. With this action, there is now a convenient and reliable option for patient sample collection from the comfort and safety of their home.”
As of now, the kits are only available in Maryland, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island.
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