THE at-home COVID-19 test is coming to America.
Americans now have an option for testing that doesn't involve leaving the house. Back in December, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) bestowed an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the home test developed for over-the-counter use.
The White House took it a step further this month by striking a $231.8M deal for increased production for the U.S. market.
BREAKING: Announces $231.8 Million Agreement with the U.S. Government to Scale Up Production of #COVID19 Home Tests
— Ellume (@EllumeHealth) February 1, 2021
The first non-prescription, over-the-counter at-home #rapidtest for #COVID19 detection.https://t.co/Mr3VCkLFJS pic.twitter.com/KTEBPb6TVW
The Ellume test is very similar to the drive-through tests currently being administered across the country. It uses a nasal swab and reagents to detect COVID-19 protein by-products, with results being sent to the user through a secure online portal. Like state-funded tests, any positive results are reported by Ellume so the appropriate health department can follow up with users.
Right now, the Ellume test has a 95 percent accuracy rate and costs about $30 per kit. The new agreement, however, will hopefully facilitate a lower price per person once they become available for sale in the U.S. According to the White House COVID response team, most Americans will be able to access these home tests more easily by summer.
When will new at home rapid test be available to purchase in the US? https://t.co/AqoHzWBE89
— White House COVID-19 Response Team (@WHCOVIDResponse) February 4, 2021
For more information about the home tests and their increased production, visit the official Ellume website. You can also follow along on the White House COVID-19 Response Team's Twitter feed.
What are your thoughts on the concept of using a home COVID test? Would you be willing to give it a try? Let us know what you think in the comments.