Sam's Club Members: 2-Count BinaxNOW COVID19 Antigen Self Test Expired

As a nurse practitioner, I just want to express my opinion from a healthcare perspective who recently had covid and went through these tests.

1. PCR testing will always be better at detection than rapid tests, but approved rapid tests are also very reliable. Timing of the tests is also very important.
a. That being said, I use a 2-prong approach when I tested myself.

2. The rapid tests may not seem "reliable" because you have to have enough of a viral load in order for it to be detected.
a. Imagine sand at the beach, sand on the pier or boardwalk, sand in your car on the drive home, and how much sand is in your car months later. Big difference right? Well the virus is microscopic and you can have very little amounts early, and then it MULTIPLES.
b. For this reason, you might need to re-test when symptomatic.

My COVID testing course:
1. Day #1 mild symptoms began the morning, I did a rapid test a few hours later, negative. Scheduled PCR, earliest available was next day
2. Day #1 more symptoms began that night, retested, still negative.
3. Day #2 PCR done in the morning. Repeated 3rd rapid test that afternoon, positive (faintly)
4. Day #4 PCR positive
5. **If my PCR and rapid tests came back negative, I probably would've repeated the PCR once more and maybe the rapid 1-2x further as I was symptomatic**


My advice is the following:
1. It is good to have options. We are fortunately enough to have rapid tests and PCR tests fairly readily available. Make good use of it if you're symptomatic. You MAY need to repeat tests. (Also, there are increased number of "fake" or unreliable rapid test kits - make sure to check with medical providers, the CDC, or your state's health dept. Binax is reliable.)

2. The govt gives 4 free kits, everyone should get it. If you don't need it, then good. Your neighbor, friend, or family may need it one day.

3. Insurance also reimburses for the kits - check with your insurance. I have BCBS and they will reimburse $12 per kit x 8 kit monthly (I think)

4. Be kind to others. We're all sitting in boats floating in the ocean amidst a storm that none of us wanted to be a part of.

2 tests or almost 3 rotisserie chickens, I know which choice I'm making.

Well, as of about an hour ago I can tell you these things work to tell you that you have Covid.