Rapid Antigen Testing

This page provides information on rapid antigen testing and instructions on how to use them.
​Testing can determine if you have COVID-19. Testing is recommended when a positive or negative result will inform decisions about treatment or care, such as for people who may benefit from treatment.
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People who may benefit from treatment can be prescribed medications based on a positive result from a rapid antigen test. Learn more about who can benefit from treatment

People who are ill or have symptoms of illness should seek medical care as needed, regardless of your result. Contact your healthcare provider if you have questions about your health.

Free rapid antigen tests may be available at select community pharmacies. Find a participating pharmacy​
Using an at-home kit
Rapid tests are done by collecting a sample from each nostril, using a swab. The swab will only go a few centimetres inside your nose; it should not hurt. Use tests only as directed.
  • Rapid antigen tests are not recommended for use in children under 5 years.
  • Children 14 years and younger shouldn't use a test without adult supervision
  • Wash hands thoroughly after use
  • Keep the test components out of reach of children and animals
  • Do not swallow the solutions, and avoid eye and skin contact​
  • Used tests and components can be safely disp​osed of in household garbage
Please discard test kits that have expired. 

Instructions

Download PDF instructions for Artron tests

Watch videos on using an at home kit​

These resources provide a general guide to at-home rapid testing. Follow the specific instructions for your test.  

If you need assistance with the rapid antigen testing instructions including for people with sight loss, please call 8-1-1.

Only use rapid antigen test kits that have been approved for use by Health Canada. Each kit comes with instructions on how to use the tests. You can also ask the pharmacist if you have questions. 

Test Results

People who are ill or have symptoms of illness should seek medical care as needed, regardless of your test result. 

Positive result

If your result is positive, it means COVID-19 was detected. You likely have COVID-19 and you could pass it on to others.

For information on next steps including checking if you may benefit from treatment, and managing symptoms, go to:

There are some treatments available for people who tested positive for COVID-19, who are not in hospital, and who are at higher risk of serious illness from COVID-19. To find out if you may benefit from treatment and how to get the treatment, visit:  gov.bc.ca/covidtreatments. 

Negative result

  • If your result is negative, it means COVID-19 was not detected. It is still possible that you have COVID-19.
  • Stay home until your symptoms improve, you don’t have a fever, and you feel well enough to return to regular activities.
  • If you are eligible for treatment and you  continue to feel sick or your symptoms worsen, repeat the test in 24 hours. You may repeat the test every day for 5 days as long as you feel you are not improving. If the test remains negative by day 5 of your illness, it is unlikely you have COVID-19.
  • If you are concerned about your health, you should contact your health care provider. They may suggest additional testing based on their assessment. 

Invalid result

  • If your test is not valid, discard all the pieces from the first test.
  • Wash your hands and repeat the process using a second set of test pieces.
  • Follow the test instructions again.  

Accessibility

If you are blind or partially sighted and need assistance to read your rapid antigen test result the Canadian National Institute for the Blind, CNIB recommends the free service provided by Be My Eyes. 
Common Questions
Rapid antigen tests are recommended for use by people who currently have symptoms of COVID-19.  The tests are not recommended for children under 5 years because if the test is not carried out by a healthcare provider the swab can injure their nose.

See answers to frequently asked questions about rapid antigen testing at home.

 
No. False positives with rapid antigen tests are rare. 

If you test positive for COVID-19, learn what to do if you have COVID-19. 

 

Rapid antigen tests are best at detecting COVID-19 when used by those who are experiencing symptoms. A negative result means that COVID-19 was not detected at that time. It does not guarantee you do not have COVID-19. 

 

 
Generally, people who are symptomatic and test negative should stay home until they feel well enough to participate in regular day-to-day activities. You do not need to test again as many respiratory infections have similar symptoms. 

People who are eligible for treatment can repeat the test in 24 hours if you continue to feel sick or your symptoms worsen. You may repeat the test every day for 5 days as long as you feel you are not improving. If the test remains negative by day 5 of your illness, it is unlikely you have COVID-19.

If you have difficulty managing your symptoms, or if you are eligible for antiviral treatment for COVID-19, then you should consult your healthcare provider.


 

After a positive COVID-19 test you should stay home until your fever has resolved and you feel well enough to return to your usual activities. Seek care if you cannot manage your symptoms at home.


You do not need a negative rapid antigen test as proof that it is safe to return to your normal activities.

 


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