Updated Dec 16, 2020 - Health

FDA authorizes rapid, at-home coronavirus test

Marisa Fernandez

Illustration of a first aid emoji in a text marked "not delivered" — Illustration: Annelise Capossela/Axios

The Food and Drug Administration on Tuesday authorized the first over-the-counter, at-home rapid coronavirus test, which allows users to get their results from an app.

The big picture: A slew of at-home tests are in development, which could make diagnostics easier and faster as the pandemic rages on.

The state of play: Several companies are working on at-home test kits that deliver results digitally, the Wall Street Journal notes.

Ellume, the company that received FDA authorization for its at-home test on Tuesday, is working on a function that would let users share their results with their doctor and local health authorities.
The FDA asked Lucira Health, which is working on a rapid test, to develop a mobile app or website for better data tracking.
Gauss Surgical and Cellex's test would require users take a photo of their results for an algorithm's interpretation.
On Wednesday, the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag Card Home Test was authorized for use by patients at home with a prescription, and will be paired with telehealth options.

Add Axios on Google

FDA authorizes rapid, at-home coronavirus test

What to read next