Homemade antigen tests authorized for detecting Covid-19

The Ministry of Health announced that In Colombia, self-administered antigen tests against Covid-19 can be used, known as ‘rapid or home tests’, to detect whether people are infected with the virus.

The decision was presented at the Unified Command Post (PMU) which was carried out in the municipality of Quimbaya (Quindío), where it was confirmed that the rapid results of these tests will allow people to begin self-isolation in a timely manner.

The Ministry of Health stated that these tests are recommended when symptoms related to covid-19 are present, after having close contact with a person who has the virus.

“They can be used to make decisions that will help you avoid spreading Covid-19 in situations such as: meetings in closed spaces, participating in crowds or before meeting with people at risk of becoming seriously ill, older adults, immunosuppressed people or who are not vaccinated or who have an incomplete schedule, or with children who do not have a vaccination schedule or have an incomplete schedule,” said the entity.

He said that lSelf-administered covid-19 antigen tests will be available in pharmacies, drugstores or other trusted establishments.

The Ministry of Health document stressed that in order to make the test valid, it is important that the people who use it Check that they have Invima registration with the indication of free sale.

“If the result is positive, contact your health service to determine if additional screening is necessary, especially if you are prioritized for being part of the risk population groups (under 3 years of age, 60 years of age or older, have comorbidities, pregnant woman), or if they require a certificate of isolation, medical incapacity, financial support for a family member for one time only (according to article 14 of Decree 538 of 2020),” the Ministry indicated.

That entity stated that the test results Self-administered antigen tests have no occupational value for requesting disability or isolation certificate, or requesting payment of Temporary Economic Compensation for the subsidized regime.

Finally, this entity highlighted that after the result, patients must undergo a medical evaluation to receive a disability or isolation certificate.