Rapid tests to be free for Victorians: All your questions answered

Health Minister Martin Foley has announced that rapid antigen tests for Covid-19 will be made free for all Victorians. Here’s what you need to know.

What is a rapid antigen test?

Rapid antigen tests are a faster way to test for Covid-19 than the traditional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests.

How accurate is a rapid antigen test?

While PCR tests are still considered the most accurate and reliable test to detect and diagnose the virus, rapid tests provide a strong indication. Health Minister Martin Foley on Wednesday said the alternate testing method had become “increasingly effective”.

Rapid tests are most reliable when used by a person who has Covid-related symptoms. The tests are also typically more accurate with frequent use — for example, doing two to three tests over a week — if you don’t have any symptoms.

How many has the government ordered and when will they arrive?

The state government has confirmed its made an order for more than 34 million rapid antigen tests. They will be distributed widely for free, with the first of the deliveries arriving next week.

How can I get one now?

Rapid tests can now be bought at supermarkets, pharmacies and some online suppliers. People who are deemed workplace and education contacts are given five rapid tests at state-run testing sites.

It’s not yet clear how the government plans to roll out the free tests more widely.

How much will they cost?

The new tests will be free to all Victorians.

When should I get a rapid test?

• If you are displaying symptoms and cannot access a standard test.

• If you want to quickly check if you may have Covid-19.

• As part of an established surveillance program such as one organised by your school or your employer.

• When otherwise recommended by the Department of Health, such as if you are a workplace or education contact and have already had a negative PCR test.

The new rapid antigen tests will be free to all Victorians. Picture: AFP

If you are alerted to having been at an exposure site, or you are a close contact, can you just use a rapid antigen test or do you have to get a PCR test?

You must also get a standard PCR test.

How do you use a rapid antigen test?

According to the Department of Health, there are two types of rapid antigen tests available, including a saliva and nasal swab.

The saliva test involves spitting into a tube or sucking on a swab, while the nasal test involves swabbing each nostril.

Can children take rapid tests?

Yes. The Department of Health says it is advised that if a child is 12-17 years old and wants to do a test themselves, a parent or guardian should supervise to ensure that they are following the steps correctly.

Children under 12 years old will need a parent or guardian to perform the test on them.

How long do the tests take?

These tests can be done at home by yourself, with most returning a result in 15 to 30 minutes.

What happens if I test positive?

Rapid tests can only tell if you are likely to have Covid-19. Anyone who tests positive on a rapid test must back it up with a standard PCR swab.

Can I go about my business if I’m negative?

If you feel well, continue as normal and monitor for symptoms. If you feel unwell visit a Covid-19 testing site for a PCR test to confirm your result.

If you have symptoms, can you just use a rapid test or do you still have to get a PCR test?

You can use a rapid test to see if your illness is likely to be Covid, but you must still use a PCR test to confirm whether or not you are infected.