With fall approaching with COVID-19 case numbers on the rise, you may be wondering if that dusty test kit you haven’t touched in months is still useful. The simple answer is, it depends.
There is a simple method to verify, according to Chris Chiew, vice president of Pharmacy and Healthcare Innovation at London Drugs and president of the BC Pharmacy Association.
“The package itself has an expiry date. I know the manufacturer has extended the expiry date of those specific test kits, so if you have one at home that shows it has expired, verify with the pharmacist or the BCCDC website, it really displays the extended expiry dates,” Chiew told CityNews.
“You’ll be able to see the exact lot numbers as well as the expiry date on the box.” The new expiry date will be shown in the next column.”
Chiew advises throwing out any gear that is beyond its new expiry date.
“We want to make sure you’re using a test kit that hasn’t expired so you get the most accurate results possible.”
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Chiew adds that earlier test kits can still detect the new variety, which was identified in British Columbia a few weeks ago, but he recommends testing for a few days in a row to check whether you are positive or negative.
He adds free test kits are still available at your local pharmacy, so get one now to prepare for what is expected to be a challenging autumn.
Chiew says that the number of cases in British Columbia is rapidly increasing.
“We’re already seeing an increase in sick calls within our own pharmacies, and then with respect to what we’re seeing with case numbers that are being reported — wastewater systems and such — we’re starting to see an increase in COVID cases happening right now,” he said.
Overall, he thinks the same recommendations apply while combating COVID-19: wash your hands, get plenty of rest, wear a mask, and remain at home if you don’t feel well.
“You can test at the first sign of a sore throat, fever, or runny nose.” Even if it is negative and you are experiencing symptoms, you should still take the same precautions as others. It might be the flu, and you don’t want to spread it to other family members or members of the public.”
Chiew claims that more workers were employed over the summer to assist in doling out bullets when the time comes.
Adrian Dix, B.C. Health Minister, said Tuesday that he and Dr. Bonnie Henry will meet shortly to finalize specifics of the autumn immunization program. People should anticipate both flu and COVID-19 vaccinations to be available at the same time next month, which some have questioned because it will cause B.C. to miss the current autumn wave.