Over-the-counter home test for COVID-19 gets US green light

[left-of-center2012]

The first home test for COVID-19 that doesn’t require a prescription will soon be on U.S. store shelves. U.S. regulators Tuesday authorized the rapid coronavirus test, which can be done entirely at home. The announcement by the Food and Drug Administration represents another important step in efforts to expand testing options.

Regulators granted emergency use for a similar home test last month, but that one needs a doctor’s prescription. The agency’s action Tuesday allows sales in places like drugstores “where a patient can buy it, swab their nose, run the test and find out their results in as little as 20 minutes,” said FDA Commissioner Stephen Hahn, in a statement.

Initial supplies of the over-the-counter test will be limited. Australian manufacturer Ellume said it expects to produce 3 million tests next month before ramping up production over the first half of 2021.

A company spokesperson said the test will be priced around $30 and be available at pharmacies and for purchase online. The test connects digitally to a smart phone app that displays the results and then helps interpret the results. Users can also connect with a health professional via the app.

https://apnews.com/article/over-the-counter-home-coronavirus-test-ac070f4d42d9d7eacc486c9bed4ccaa0

[underpants]

1. So I have to take over my kitchen counter?

I hope so. It’s the only counter we have.

[PSPS]

2. "test can deliver a small percentage of false positive and false negative results" - how "small?"

[crimycarny]

3. Here is the accuracy

“The Ellume COVID-19 Home Test correctly identified 96% of positive samples and 100% of negative samples in individuals with symptoms. In people without symptoms, the test correctly identified 91% of positive samples and 96% of negative samples. “

I can’t help but think this is another case of those with $$ or connections getting this test the earliest due to limited supply. People will rush out to purchase as many as they can—hoard—just like toilet paper.

[Zoonart]

4. I heard it being said ( Laurie Garret?)that this test should cost no more than fifty cents per test.

Countries in Europe are planning to have them in vending machines on the streets.

https://www.wired.com/story/covid-19-testing-is-expensive-it-doesnt-have-to-be
Update: 50 cents to manufacture.

[Shermann]

5. But won't this cause a rise in cases???

[secondwind]

6. I've had two swabs already, and boy do they hurt! I don't see me doing this to myself.

No thanks.

[dhill926]

7. I had a test a week and a half ago....

nasal swab, but no pain, very little discomfort. They said it was a new technique....

[left-of-center2012]

9. Mine had a slight tickle n/t

[forthemiddle]

8. These results won't be added to the official numbers

So if they become popular, our numbers will go down!
GOP Governors will be thrilled!