Covid-19 Self-Test Kit Ultimate Guide – 7 Best Picks in Malaysia

    The number of people infected in Malaysia by Covid-19 is much higher than the first thought. If you are one of those who fear contracting a Covid-19 virus infection, it is essential to know which test kit is suitable for your needs and wants. There are many types of Covid-19 self-test kits available in the market with different prices and features.

    This article aims to help you understand more about these test kits and find the most reliable and accurate self-test kit for yourself or your loved ones. Without further ado, let us jump into the list! Please read on further about the covid-19 test kit, detail review and FAQs.

    What is the Covid-19 test kit?

    Covid-19 self-test Kit (known as Covid-19 Rapid Antigen Home Test Kit) is a quick, painless and accurate screening tool that allows for hygienic nose or/and saliva swab samples to be taken at home. These methods are considered the most efficient way of testing as well as ensuring accuracy with Covid-19 detection.

    Why do you need to use the Covid-19 Test Kit?

    The covid-19 test kit is considered a reliable and accurate test that can be done in your own home by yourself without needing assistance from another person. This reduces the risk of spreading the infection further and having other people become at risk. It also ensures that you get accurate results quickly without waiting for days or weeks before you get answers.

    What is the advantages and disadvantages of the Covid-19 Test Kit?

    The main advantage when using the Covid-19 Test Kit is that it can be completed in the privacy of your own home without needing assistance from another person. This reduces the risk of exposing others to danger and minimizing people’s chances of becoming ill.

    Another advantage is that the results are easy to read and understand. You simply need to look for two lines that indicate the presence or absence of antigen, respectively, and there will be no mistake about it.

    The disadvantages of the Covid-19 Test Kit stem from its single-use nature, which means that you cannot re-use the kit. Another thing is that some people may find it difficult to collect samples due to mouth sores or dryness caused by smoking or other health conditions. There can also be some difficulties in reading the results due to light levels not being perfect in all situations and other factors such as a dirty test surface.

    The Type of Testing Method

    Most of the Covid-19 test kits use saliva as the samples to do the testing. Some test kits like Salixium combine with nose swabs. Both are painless and can be done easily at home by following the right instruction. Also, it only takes around 20-30 mins to complete the test and get the result.

    How accurate is the Covid-19 Test Kit?

    In terms of accuracy, most of the Covid-19 Test Kit approved by the Medical Device Authority of Malaysia (MDA) has a sensitivity of more than 90% and specificity close to 100%.

    Sensitivity refers to how accurate to test a positive covid-19 people with a positive result. Sensitivity 90%+ mean that 90%+ accuracy you are infected by Covid-19 if the result is positive. You must to the further RT-PCR test to confirm the test result.

    Specificity refers to how accurate to test a negative covid-19 people with a negative result. Specificity 100% means that if you get a negative result, the test kit doesn’t indicate covid-19 does NOT infect you during the testing time. However, if you have close contact with the covid-19 patient, you should do another test after 5-7 days. This is because the virus is only detectable after 5-7 days.

    In short, you can be sure that it is highly accurate to use these test kits.

    How to use Covid-19 Test Kit

    First of all, you have to find a sterile swab or cotton tip and remove it from its tube. Then insert the swab or cotton tip into your mouth below your tongue for around 1 minute until it is soaked with saliva. Then place the swab or cotton tip in a sterile tube to keep it safe for future use. If you desire, you can discard it and then use another one to repeat the test later on.

    Then put the saliva sample into the Covid-19 antigen device with an absorbent pad attached and wait until it is ready (usually after 15 mins). You will see either the two lines (C & T sections) indicating the results as positive. Or one line at the C section is negative, or there is no line at all, which mean an invalid result (more on the test kit result later).

    Find out the video instruction in the product review section below.

    How to Read the Test Kit Result

    Positive Result

    If you see two red lines by C and T sections, it indicates a positive result. The lines can be distinct or faint. This test result shows that you are tested Covid-19 positive.

    • Even if you have no symptoms, it’s best to see your doctor as soon as possible because there might be hard to detect complications.
    • An RT-PCR test is still required for a confirmation of the Covid-19 case.
    • Do follow the current SOP given

    Negative Result

    If you see one red line by C, and no line by T, it indicates a negative result.

    • Although you probably don’t have Covid-19, you must continue monitoring for signs of infection if you think you might be exposed to the virus due to symptoms or past exposure history. It is possible to even in cases where there are no current test results available because a false negative could occur
    • If you develop symptoms, the best way to confirm is by doing an RT-PCR test later on.

    Invalid Result

    It is an invalid result if you do not see any lines or one line by T. The test failed.

    • You need to take another test with a new test kit.

    What to do if I tested positive?

    If the test kit shows a positive result, you should immediately take another RT-PCR test by going to your nearest clinic or hospital. An RT-PCR test is still required for final confirmation. Do follow the current SOP given, which is to quarantine yourself at home.

    If you are very anxious, please do not hesitate to call for the health personnel. They will help you with what to do next and answer your questions.

    Next, you should update on MySejahtera app so MOH can contact you. Lastly, do order any essentials and pandemic items such as a pulse oximeter to keep track of your blood oxygen level.

    7 popular Covid-19 Self Test Kits in Malaysia

    Today, there are 13 test kits approved by MDA & KKM in Malaysia (Check out the updated list here). We do research and come out with the 7 most popular test kits in Malaysia.

    1. Gmate COVID-19 Home Self Test Saliva Rapid Antigen Kit (RTK)

    Made in Korea

    The Gmate COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Kit (RTK) is a self-test kit for anyone who wants to perform testing at home or anywhere without going to a healthcare facility. The accuracy of this kit has been proven by the Institute of Medical Research that 96% accuracy is based on 91% sensitivity and 100 % specificity. The kit comes with an illustrated how-to manual that helps guide your usage.

    How to use it

    Manufacturer: Philosys Co., Ltd, Republic of Korea

    Sample: Saliva

    Sensitivity: 91.0%

    Specificity: 100.0%

    Accuracy based sensitivity & specificity: 95.5%

    Check prices on Lazada
    Check prices on Watsons

    2. ALLTEST COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test (Oral Fluid)

    Popular Picks in Lazada/Shopee

    The ALLTEST COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test is a rapid chromatographic immunoassay for the qualitative detection of SARS-CoV-2 antigens in human oral fluid. When the control line (C) appears, it means that your test unit is working correctly, and you can read your results after 15 minutes as long as a coloured line has appeared next to the Control region. Please do not read the result after 20 minutes have elapsed.

    The test can be performed at any time, but we recommend performing it first thing in the morning when collecting.

    How to use it

    Manufacturer: Hangzhou AllTest Biotech Co., Ltd Zheijang, P.R. China.

    Sample: Saliva

    Sensitivity: 91.38%

    Specificity: 100.0%

    Accuracy based sensitivity & specificity: 95.7%

    Check prices on Lazada

    3. Salixium COVID-19 Home Self Test Rapid Antigen Kit (RTK) (Saliva/Nasal)

    Better detection rate & integrate with MySejahtera app

    Salixium COVID-19 Home Self Test Rapid Antigen Kit (RTK) is a device that allows self-testing of Covid-19 antigen. At the comfort of home or your office, this test kit can be used to perform self-tests and collect samples for testing without the need for getting tested at a healthcare facility. When two types of samples – saliva or nasal swab- are collected with this kit. It has an advantage over one type because it increases detection rate when combined together than alone—paired with saliva specimens or nasal swabs, with a sensitivity of 91% and specificity of 100%. 

    How to use it

    Manufacturer: Reszon Diagnostics International Sdn Bhd. Selangor, Malaysia.

    Sample: Saliva and Nasal

    Sensitivity: 91.40%

    Specificity: 100.0%

    Accuracy based sensitivity & specificity: 95.7%

    Check prices on Lazada
    Check prices on Watsons

    4. Beright Covid-19 Antigen Rapid Test Kit – Oral Fluid

    High Accuracy

    The Beright COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test (Oral Fluid) is an accurate and reliable at-home test kit for the novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 that causes COVID-19 in human oral fluid. For an accurate result, it’s necessary to collect a symptomatic person’s home sample.

    However, with this convenient home testing device, you can be reassured either way – if the result turns up positive, you’ll know to seek immediate medical care while holding onto precious time before any irreversible damage occurs.

    On the other hand, if it shows negativity, you are likely to clear of infection and move on without worry.

    How to use it

    Manufacturer: Hangzhou AllTest Biotech Co., Ltd. Zheijang, P.R. China.

    Sample: Saliva

    Sensitivity: 93.10%

    Specificity: 100.0%

    Accuracy based sensitivity & specificity: 96.55%

    Check prices on Lazada
    Check prices on Watsons

    5. Newgene COVID-19 Antigen Detection Kit

    Can apply 2 type of samples

    Newgene COVID-19 Antigen Detection Kit provides rapid and easy self-testing to allow greater ease of use with no need for a healthcare facility. This product can be applied to two sample types, though only one can be used at one time when using the kit to perform the test (Saliva Option or Nasal Swab Option).

    After 15 minutes, simply read your results provided by the kit. No more trips to the clinic! With this instant access and greater convenience of use in virtually any location available, it’s easier than ever before with Newgene COVID-19 Antigen Detection Kit.

    How to use it

    Manufacturer: New Gene (Hangzhou) Bioengineering Co., Ltd. P.R. China.

    Sample: Saliva or Nasal

    Sensitivity: 90.80%

    Specificity: 100.0%

    Accuracy based sensitivity & specificity: 95.4%

    Check prices on Lazada

    6. JusChek Rapid Antigen Covid 19 Home Test Kit

    Budget Picks

    The JusChek COVID-19 Antigen Test is for the use of detection oral fluids that are found at the site of potentially infected people. This kit will help you identify COVID-19, a novel coronavirus that typically frequents human mucosal surfaces such as the mouth and throat. Easily identify suspects by figuring out if they have symptoms, including coughing or fever. Low tech but high quality, this home test delivers results in just 15 minutes in confidence. With easy specimen collection, you won’t need to bother with complicated equipment; it’s smart and simple for everyone from the novice to expert alike! The JusChek Rapid Antigen Covid 19 Test Kit provides accurate and precise results without any hassle.

    How to use it

    Manufacturer: Hangzhou AllTest Biotech Co., Ltd Zheijang, P.R. China.

    Sample: Saliva

    Sensitivity: 90.00%

    Specificity: 100.0%

    Accuracy based sensitivity & specificity: 95.0%

    Check prices on Lazada

    7. LongSee 3 IN 1 COVID 19 Home Self Test Rapid Antigen Kit (RTK)

    Newly introduced

    The LongSee 3 IN 1 COVID 19 Home Self Test Rapid Antigen Kit is an economical way to test for coronavirus infection disease (COVID-19). This test provides a preliminary diagnosis. Negative results cannot exclude 2019-nCoV infection, and they cannot be used as the sole basis for treatment or other management decisions. For in vitro diagnostic use only.

    How to use it

    Manufacturer: Guangdong Longsee Biomedical Co. Ltd., Guangzhou, P.R. China.

    Sample: Saliva

    Sensitivity: 94.30%

    Specificity: 100.0%

    Accuracy based sensitivity & specificity: 97.15%

    Check prices on Lazada
    Check prices on Watsons

    What is the cost and where to buy it in Malaysia?

    The ceiling price is set to RM 39.90 per unit. However, you can find it at a lower price if you buy it in bulk or get from during a special offer in Lazada (We often see it selling as long as RM 26.00).

    You can get these products at the nearest registered pharmacists, private healthcare facilities or buy them online. We recommend buying it online to reduce the risk of exposure. Lazada is recommended as you can find lower prices and compare suppliers from various locations near where you stay. You can also check the reviews and find out the best offer.

    Key Takeaways

    The covid-19 test kit is an easy way of testing yourself at home without assistance from another person. This reduces the chance of exposing others to danger and minimizing people’s chances of becoming ill. These methods are considered the most efficient way of testing as well as ensuring accuracy with Covid-19 detection. You have to follow simple instructions and wait for 20 – 30 minutes to find out the test result.

    However, do note that this is only limited to screening purposes. If you are testing positive, you should the RT-PCR test for further confirmation.

    FAQs

    When should you test yourself?

    When you think of the Covid-19 virus, there is no good time to test for it. However, if you are developing Covid-19 symptoms such as fever and difficulty breathing, you can use the test kit to confirm the test result.

    If you have been exposed to high-risk areas, the best time to do the Covid-19 test kit is 5-7 days after possible exposure to the covid-19 patient. The symptoms usually appear within 5 days; however, if there are no visible signs or symptoms of infection, it is still a good idea to do a self-test.

    You can do a test immediately. But if tested negative, it is recommended to do another test 5-7 days later. This is because some individuals will not present with initial symptoms until 1 week after exposure.

    Do I need any special equipment for the Self Test Kit?

    No special equipment is needed! The Covid-19 Self Test Kit can be performed with nothing but your fingers and saliva.

    Who should use it?

    The Covid-19 test kit is available and recommended for anyone who has been exposed to a covid patient or if they are experiencing negative side effects from exposure (severe illness). It is also recommended that individuals who worked with covid patients before should also perform self-testing.

    Is it okay to take the test immediately after brushing my teeth or using dental products?

    The test cannot be done right after brushing teeth or using oral products like mouth wash. It needs to have been at least thirty minutes since the last time you brushed your teeth, used any type of oral product such as toothpaste and other things before doing this kind of testing for THC metabolites in saliva.

    Is there a difference in the accuracy of saliva test kits compared to deep throat saliva testing?

    According to the American Journal of Infection Control, deep throat saliva samples have an accuracy rate of 82%, whereas saliva samples have an accuracy rate of 83%. As a result, both should have comparable precision.

    Why do some products need nasal and saliva sample collection?

    Self-collected nasal samples or saliva alone may miss certain detection of viral load. Combining both swabs has the advantage of increasing the rate at which viruses can be detected in patient's bodies

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, pulse oximeters are important for people with respiratory or heart conditions. They can also be used to monitor COVID-19. A healthy range for pulse oximeters is between 98 and 99 per cent, while anything under 90 per cent requires medical attention.

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