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COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Tests: What you need to know
How a rapid antigen test (RAT) is easier, quicker and cheaper than a PCR test.
Where to buy at-home COVID test kits in Canada?
| Retailer | Type of COVID-19 test | Starting price | In stock? | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PPE Supply Canada | Rapid antigen | $12.00 (1-pack) |  | Buy now |
| PPE Supply Canada | Rapid antigen | $40 (BTNX Rapid Response 5-pack) | | Buy now |
| Go Test Rapide | Rapid antigen | $70.00 (5-pack) | | Buy now |
| PPE Online | Rapid antigen | $119.99 (20-pack) | | Buy now |
| Go Test Rapide | Rapid antigen (guided by health professional) | $40.00 (1-pack) | | Buy now |
| Well.ca | Rapid antigen | $29.99 (2-pack) | | |
| WagJag | Rapid antigen | $146.95 (20-pack) | |
What is a rapid antigen test (RAT)?
An antigen test (also known as a rapid antigen test, rapid test or a lateral flow test) detects the presence of a virus by looking for certain virus-specific proteins in a swab sample.
Taking an antigen test is a lot easier, quicker and cheaper than taking a PCR tests or a serological (blood) test, both of which are also used to detect the presence of COVID. Additionally, you can take an antigen test yourself at home given that lab analysis is not required.
How do rapid antigen tests work?
First you need to get a sample from the back of your throat or nose. Typically, samples are take from your nose using a swab.
While some tests require a sample from deep inside your nasal cavity, which can be a little uncomfortable to collect, some antigen tests only require a shallow nasal sample.
At a clinic
If you’re going to a clinic, you’ll take a swab sample under the supervision of a professional or the professional will take it for you. Once the swab is taken, the results can appear in as little as 15 minutes.
If your results come back negative, then you don’t have COVID-19 and will be given a certificate to travel. Simply show your certificate at the airport, business, restaurant or anywhere else it’s required, and you’re good to go!
At home
If you’re taking an at-home antigen test, you’ll collect your own swab sample from the tonsils, nostrils or both (whichever the instructions specify). Depending on the delivery service and level of demand, it can take up to 3 working days to receive your test in the mail.
Some providers may require that you swab your nose or throat under the supervision of a professional via Zoom or some other video chat service. You’ll be instructed on how to test your sample.
If a negative result appears, you’ll be issued with a certificate which can be used to travel or visit restricted areas.
How much does a rapid antigen test cost?
Prices vary between test providers, but an at-home rapid antigen lateral flow test could cost between $15 to $100+ per test.
The price can vary because of factors like consulting with a medical professional, getting a receipt for insurance and the number of tests included in a single kit.
How are rapid antigen tests different to PCR tests?
While an antigen test looks for the presence of virus-specific proteins, a PCR test goes even deeper and looks for the RNA (genetic material) that tells the virus to produce these proteins.
Both types of tests require a nose or throat swab sample. But PCR tests are much more precise and have a lower chance of producing false positives (inaccurate COVID diagnosis) or false negatives (inaccurately clearing someone who has COVID).
PCR tests also take longer, requiring up to 1-2 days to produce results. Whereas, antigen tests often only take up to 15 minutes.
Can I travel if I take a rapid antigen test?
Some countries and airlines will permit people with negative antigen test results to travel, but be sure to check your destination country’s specific requirements before making travel plans. You should also check your airline’s policies as well as the Government of Canada’s COVID travel notices.
Where can I get an antigen test for travel?
Check Health Canada’s list of approved COVID testing devices, but remember that many of these devices are for professional—not individual—use. Some of the companies that offer Health Canada approved COVID-19 tests include:
- WagJag
- Rapid Test & Trace
- Santé Medic
- The Canadian Shield
- FH Health
- Switch Health
Compare rapid antigen tests you can buy now in Canada
BTNX Rapid Response Covid-19 Antigen Test Kit
IN STOCK
- 20% off at checkout
- Delivery: 1-5 business days
- Same-day shipping on all orders placed by 4PM EST
- Antigen test
- Results in 15-20 minutes
- Health Canada approved
FlowFlex Rapid Antigen Test
IN STOCK
- 20% off at checkout
- Delivery: 1-5 business days
- Free Shipping over $99
- Same-day shipping on all orders placed by 4PM EST
- Non-invasive rapid antigen test
- Results in 15-20 minutes
- Health Canada approved
Boson Rapid COVID 19 Antigen Test
IN STOCK
Delivery: 3-7 days
- Antigen test
- Results in 15-20 minutes
- Health Canada approved
Roche SARS-CoV-2 Rapid Antigen Test
IN STOCK
Delivery: 3-7 days
- Antigen test
- Results in 15 minutes
- Health Canada approved
BTNX Rapid Test
IN STOCK
Delivery: 1-5 days
- Antigen test
- Results in 15 minutes
- Health Canada approved
Boson Rapid SARS CoV-2 Antigen Test
IN STOCK
Delivery: 1-5 days
- Antigen test
- Results in 15-20 minutes
- Health Canada approved
Artron Test
IN STOCK
Delivery: 1-5 days
- Antigen test
- Results in 15-20 minutes
- Health Canada approved
SD Biosensor Rapid Test
IN STOCK
Delivery: 1-5 days
- Antigen test
- Results in 15-30 minutes
- Health Canada approved
Antigen At-Home Tele-Test Service
IN STOCK
Delivery: 1-5 days
- Antigen test
- Administered by health professional via video call
- Results within 1 hour
- Approved for travel to some countries
Should I take a rapid test? Pros and cons
- Cheaper than a PCR test
- Instructions are easy to follow
- Can order tests online and self-administered at home
- Many at-home antigen tests don’t require professional supervision or lab analysis
- Quick results
- Not accepted by every airline or country
- Less accurate than a PCR test
Other COVID-19 guides
Where to get a COVID-19 test in Vancouver
Here’s where you can find and book a rapid antigen test, PCR test or buy a home testing kit in Vancouver, BC for Covid-19.
Read more…
Where to buy a 3M mask online in Canada
Looking to buy a 3M mask in Canada? Pick up a 3M respirator, 3M N95 mask or other 3M safety supplies from one of these online retailers.
Read more…
Where to get a COVID-19 test in British Columbia
Here’s where you can find and book a PCR test, rapid antigen test, or buy a home testing kit in British Columbia for Covid-19.
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