FDA approves new at-home test for coronavirus

UPDATED: DECEMBER 16, 2020 AT 9:48 AM

The FDA granted emergency use approval for Ellume's at-home coronavirus test, which will be available over-the-counter. Photo: Ellume

BY MARY RICHARDS
KSLNewsRadio

The FDA has approved a new at-home coronavirus test kit you can soon buy over the counter.

At-home coronavirus test available OTC

The FDA granted emergency use authorization to the first over-the-counter antigen test for COVID-19.

This is a nasal swab kit for coronavirus that can be used at-home for anyone ages two and up, even if there are no symptoms.

The test uses an analyzer that is connected with an app on a smartphone, according to the FDA press release.

You can find out if you are positive or negative for the virus within 20 minutes. And it’s extremely accurate.

The company, Ellume, says it should hit stores soon. They hope to produce three million tests in 2021.

A week ago the FDA approved another at-home coronavirus test, but for that one you send samples to an outside lab, so results take longer.

The FDA says this will reduce the burden on labs and test supplies, expand Americans’ access to testing and let them do it from home.

COVID-19 coronavirus spreads person to person, similar to the common cold and the flu. So, to prevent it from spreading:

Wash hands frequently and thoroughly, with soap and water, for at least 20 seconds.
Don’t touch your face.
Wear a mask to protect yourself and others per CDC recommendations.
Keep children and those with compromised immune systems away from someone who is coughing or sneezing (in this instance, at least six feet).
If there is an outbreak near you, practice social distancing (stay at home, instead of going to the movies, sports events, or other activities).
Obtain a flu shot.