There are various lateral flow tests on the market, and one of them is the Flowflex COVID-19 test. Many people opt for this product when testing for COVID-19. So, why are they so popular? Are FlowFlex tests accurate?

How Accurate Are Home FlowFlex Tests? 

FlowFlex Covid test accuracy is pretty high. For one, the chances of getting false-positive results are extremely low. However, it is possible to get a false-negative result.

According to research from the Cochrane Library, lateral flow tests accurately detected the virus for about 73% of COVID-19 cases in which the patient displays symptoms. On the other hand, it had a lower rate of 55% for those who did not show symptoms. This means that there is a possibility for those who have the infection to get a false negative result and further spread the COVID-19 virus. Hence, it is important always to take a lateral flow test more than once to confirm its accuracy. Keep in mind that you should take these tests 48 hours apart.

While lateral flow tests have been the go-to instrument in the battle against the pandemic, many specialists worry about how effective this tool is, especially against the novel Omicron variant. These experts typically recommend that people who have less severe COVID-19 symptoms take the PCR test.

What Are the Risks of False Test Results?

When a person tests for COVID-19 and gets a false-negative result, this means that the test shows that the individual does not have the virus. The result may lead the individual or health care provider to believe the patient is not infected, thereby delaying the diagnosis and proper treatments. This delay in treatment could lead to a more severe case or even death. 

Besides being a threat to the individual’s health, false positives can also affect others. If the infected person believes they are free from infection, they will go about their daily activities spreading the virus. Those who live in close quarters are more likely to become victims of this false test result.

Similarly, a false positive test result means the test shows that the individual has the virus when they do not. This wrong result may delay accurate diagnosis and treatment of the real reason for the patient’s illness. Furthermore, the false-positive result may also lead to more spreading of the virus when people who are thought to have the virus and quarantined together.

What Influences the Accuracy of FlowFlex Tests?

For the most part, FlowFlex Covid test accuracy is relatively high. However, there are some instances when the test might not provide accurate results. Here are some factors that may affect the result of your Flowflex test.

• Conducting the test in an unclean area may lead to contamination, thereby ruining the test.
• Not following the directions on the package insert that comes with the testing kit before performing the test.
• Taking or performing the test without washing or sanitising your hands can also affect the result of the test. If you plan on testing others, ensure to wash your hands after conducting each test.
• Eating 30 minutes before you take the test may affect results.
• Not swabbing your nose for up to 30 seconds.
• Leaving the test cassette open for longer than 60 minutes.
• Using the test after the expiration date.

Conclusion

Lateral flow tests are one of the main defenses against COVID-19, and FlowFlex test kits stand out among other products. These tests are highly accurate and can produce results extremely quickly. While Flowflex lateral flow test accuracy is not as high as other tests like PCR tests, they do an incredible job of detecting COVID-19, especially in those displaying symptoms.