Frequently Asked Questions

• What is Rapid Antigen Testing?

  Rapid antigen testing looks for proteins that are found on the surface of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus. The proteins are also called antigens. PCR tests are different in that they test for the presence of the actual virus’s genetic material or its fragments.

• Why are RATs being conducted?

  As Omicron cases continue to grow in the community across New Zealand our testing regime is shifting to respond to a rapidly evolving situation. In Phase 3 we need to conserve our PCR testing capacity to support those that need it the most – those who are unwell and more susceptible to the effects of COVID-19. This means we have widened the use of Rapid antigen tests (RATs). There are currently 11 different types of RATs approved for use in New Zealand

• Can’t I just get tested for free at the pharmacy, community testing centre or my doctors?

  Yes, PCR testing is available through your nearest community testing centre and other options however many feel frustrated by the 24 hours plus wait for an answer, long waits and even the deep nasal sampling. PCR is a more sensitive test providing a wider detection time – It can be prone to over estimation detecting fragments of dead virus from past infection. The RAPID test is a quicker option - a RAT test can detect the virus in a matter of minutes, so action can be taken much more quickly to avoid onward spread. RAT is only available free for unvaccinated people at a participating pharmacy. Any person with symptoms or a known close contact should immediately be PCR tested and home isolate.

• So, do I have to send employees somewhere to get a RAT test?

  No, that is the beauty of Rapid Antigen Testing - it can be done on-site in a matter of minutes, meaning minimum disruption to a working day or productivity.

• How does this type of test work?

  A nasal swab is provided by the donor under the supervision and that swab is then mixed with the buffer solution and 4 drops are poured on to the device. The results should be read after 15 minutes and not prior to that. Similarly not to read results after 30 minutes of the test.

• Do we need to be trained to administer tests?

  That is right. We offer easily accessed and appropriate FREE ONLINE video or supported by one on one or group Zoom sessions. We can also 'Train the trainer'.

• Why should we use your services?

  Advance Diagnostics has been providing point of care solutions to workplaces to mitigate risks around drug and alcohol for the last 14 years and provides word class products for Point of Care Testing in NZ- Securetech Drug Wipes Saliva Tests as used by Australian road side Testing and Alcolizer Range of Breathalysers as used by law enforcement around the world. For Point of Care devices for Covid -19 detection we have partnered with Roche and Siemens to bring products of highest accuracy.

• Are there different options of Rapid Antigen Tests?

  Currently in New Zealand only nasal samples for RATs have been approved by MOH. There are no products approved by Medsafe to use saliva for RATs so be careful when buying RATs. Refer here to check all approved products.

• So which RAT test should I use? Where can I get some advice?

  When buying Rats, look for the sensitivity and specificity of the product. To begin with MOH only approved four products which had sensitivity of 90% or more, later the products with lower sensitivity of 80 or more were included. Roche SD Biosensor was one of the first choices and Clinitest got added later to the list with sensitivity of 97.5%. The Roche SD Biosensor test detects the inner part of the CoVID-19 virus live antigen referred to as the nucleocapsid. This can provide some advantages over others that may target the spike proteins on the outside of the virus. RAT is an extremely effective, specific, and sensitive way of providing surveillance of your workplace for those that may be infectious and a risk to infecting others and your business continuity.

• What does Sensitivity and specificity mean?

  Sensitivity- The product will detect what it is meant to detect, so less false negatives. Specificity- The product will not have false positives and will not detect something that it is not meant to detect.

• How Often should the Rat Testing be conducted?

  For surveillance testing at least 3 times a week to get an effective outcome. It helps with business continuity and safety at work and home. For individuals or close contacts or those feeling symptomatic, test on day 1, day 3 and day 5. Depending on the viral load, the kits will provide different results so therefore the frequency of performing the RATs will ease in quick identification of positive cases and those can be isolated quickly to prevent spread of infection.

• How do I know if I got a positive result?

  The Kits need to show two lines, one is a C line that indicates that the kit has worked correctly and a T line that indicates infection. Do not go by the strength of a line, presence of a dark or a faint T and C line is indication of a positive test.

• What to do if I am positive on a RAT Test?

  1. Isolate yourself and organise a PCR test. 2. Using the Covid Tracer App, click on the Dashboard and then click on “more info”. This will provide you with an option to click on “My Covid Record” whereby you can log in to your account and load your results. 3. Let your workplace know , so those who might be at risk can conduct the RAT and also get your family to do RAT on day 1, 3 and 5.