FDA Authorizes First Rapid At-Home Testing Kit

The Food and Drug Administration has authorized the first at-home rapid covid-19 test. The Lucira Covid-19 All-in-One test kit is available by prescription for self-diagnosis. It uses molecular amplification technology, which searches for signs of the virus’s genetic material. The kit includes a sterile swab, a sample vial, a test unit, batteries, and a plastic disposal bag. The FDA says you administer the nasal swab and then insert it into the vial, which enters the test unit for analysis. Then, results are displayed on the test unit by a color change indicator. The FDA also authorized the test for use in doctor’s offices, hospitals, urgent care centers, and emergency rooms. It aims to help people skip long lines as coronavirus cases skyrocket nationwide. The U.S. has now recorded more than 100,000 daily infections for two weeks straight. yesterday, we had about 166,000 new cases. Several states are issuing a new wave of mask mandates and social restrictions as record numbers of hospitalizations strain U.S. medical systems.