DASA now offers rapid antigen testing for COVID-19, helping business get in front of the virus and keep workers safe.
There has been a noticeable shift in the public discourse of late - away from case numbers and lockdown to vaccination rates and freedom day. But as many businesses look to re-open, the big question remains - how to safely return when the virus is still circulating in our communities.
By providing results within 10-15 minutes, Rapid Antigen Testing helps employers identify and isolate COVID affected workers, effectively halting the spread of the virus. Used in conjunction with PCR testing, vaccination and COVID-safe practices, Antigen Testing helps business get in front of the virus and keep workers safe.
What is Rapid Antigen Testing?
Rapid Antigen testing is a screening tool to help detect COVID-19 in people without any symptoms. The test involves a nasal swab and is easy to use onsite in workplaces. Results are available while you wait, within 10-15 minutes. If a person returns a negative result, they get on with their day. In the event of a positive result, a PCR test is done and the worker sent home to isolate.
It compares with PCR testing which is a nasal and throat swab conducted on people who usually have COVID-19 symptoms. The sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis. Generally the results are available within 1-2 days but with high volumes of testing, results can take considerably longer. If the person being tested is having to isolate until they receive their result, they are unable to work for that period of time.
Therein lies the beauty of the Antigen test. It not only delivers the speed needed to get in front of the virus, it avoids staff drain due to team members awaiting PCR test results at home. In so doing, it affords business a welcome measure of control in the fight against COVID-19.
What about accuracy?
It is true that Rapid Antigen testing is less sensitive than PCR testing. It is after all a screening tool whereas PCR is a diagnostic test. However, even so, in a trial of Rapid Antigen Tests in emergency departments at three Melbourne hospitals last October, the rapid tests were particularly useful and sensitive in detecting COVID-19 in the first seven days of symptoms. Furthermore, if Rapid Antigen Testing is used to test the same person on multiple days, the accuracy improves.
Want to know more?
Get in touch with DASA today. Associate Professor David Allen leads a team of experienced health professionals who are specifically trained to conduct Rapid Antigen Testing in workplaces, compliant with government guidelines. Call us on 1300 230 231 or via email to info@dasa.net.au to find out more.
DASA (Drug and Alcohol Solutions Australia) is proud to be leading the way in workplace drug and alcohol services throughout Australia. Whether your need is for workplace drug testing and workplace alcohol testing, advice on drug and alcohol policy or ideas on how to communicate your workplace expectations, policies and procedures to your staff, DASA can help. We have the experience, technical expertise and people to lead you to the right solution.