The Future of Antigen Tests

Countries are in the process of emerging from various COVID-19 lockdowns. Now the UK, face masks and social distancing will no longer be the law of the land, but at the discretion of individuals.

With COVID-19 numbers on the rise, and vaccination programmes moving at a pace, what is the future of lateral flow and PCR testing? Even though there will be fewer requirements to self-isolate, especially after a completed vaccine course, testing looks set to be a part of our futures as we enter the next phase of the pandemic.

With work from home guidance removed, millions of people will join their fellow citizens who have attended their work spaces throughout the pandemic. This means close contact on public transportation, in city and town centres, in lifts and offices and other public spaces.

Many companies will institute a point-of-care or home-testing regime as part of their return to work strategy. The present guidance is that people should take a lateral flow test twice per week, even if vaccinated, so as to reduce the chance of further spread of COVID-19. Vaccines weaken the link between infection and severe illness and death, and though the research shows an impressive amount of protection against transmission, it is still possible to contract and spread COVID-19 even following vaccination.

Point of care and home lateral flow tests will be a vital part of a successful transition return to an unlocked-down life. With the Prime Minister Boris Johnson urging the British public to take personal responsibility in the next phase of the pandemic’s management, regular testing will help slow the spread by identifying active, contagious cases of the virus.

Jocada provides companies, organisations and institutions with effective, affordable rapid antigen tests from our internationally certified partners. We look forward to speaking with you about how Jocada can help you help others in your organisation. Contact us at…

Jocada: Bridging the Space between Science and Society