Strep A Rapid Test Strip Kit Includes:

• 25 Test Strips
• 25 Specimen Extraction Tubes
• 25 Collection Swabs
• Extraction Reagent A (8mL): 2.0 M sodium nitrite solution. (Warning: R25 Toxic if swallowed)
  Extraction Reagent B (8mL): 0.4 M acetic acid solution.
• Standard controls:
  Positive control (1mL): Extracted (non-infective) group A streptococcus antigen in phosphate buffer containing 0.1% NaN3. (Warning: R22 Harmful if swallowed).
  Negative control (1mL): Phosphate buffer containing 0.1% NaN3. (Warning: R22 Harmful if swallowed).
• Leaflet with instructions for use.

Procedure:

Allow the strip and extraction reagents to equilibrate to room temperature (10°C ~30°C) prior to testing.

1. Hold the Reagent A bottle upright and add 4 full drops (approximately 200 μL) to an extraction test tube. Hold the Reagent B bottle upright and add 4 full drops (approximately 200 μL) to the tube. Tap the bottom of the tube gently to mix the liquid.
2. Place the specimen throat swab into the tube. Swirl the swab for 10 times. Leave the swab in the tube for 1 minute. Then remove the swab while squeezing the swab head against the inside of the extraction tube as you remove it to expunge as much liquid as possible from the swab. Discard the swab. Mix the contents by gently swirling. The extraction specimen must be tested immediately.
3. Remove one strip from the closed canister or the sealed pouch. Immerse the tip off the extraction tube with the arrow pointing towards the specimen. IMPORTANT: Do not allow the specimen level to exceed the MAX (marker line), otherwise the test will not perform correctly. Take the strip out after at least 5 seconds and lay the strip flat on a clean, dry, non-absorbent surface.
4. Wait for 10 minutes and read the results. Some positive results may be seen earlier. Do not read results after 20 minutes.

You may start reading at 5 minutes. Confirm at 10 minutes if the result is Negative.

Interpretation of Results

Positive (+)
Colored bands are visible in both the control region and the test region. It indicates a positive result for Strep A antigen.

Negative (-)
A colored band is visible only in the control region. No colored band appears in the test region. It indicates that the concentration of the Strep A antigen is zero or below the detection limit of the test.

Invalid
No visible colored band at all, or there is a visible colored band only in the test region but not in the control region. Repeat with a new test kit. If test still fails, please contact manufacturer or the distributor for technical assistance.

Benefits of a Rapid Strep Test

When a Rapid strep throat test is performed it will determine whether a patient's sore throat is viral or bacterial. Every year 15 million Americans see the doctor for sore throat and 70 percent of them get antibiotics to treat it, according to the Infectious Diseases Society of America. When a Rapid Strep A Test shows a negative result for bacterial infection, it reduces "unnecessary" antibiotics prescriptions written by physicians. The infection may be caused by a viral infection and viruses do not respond to antibiotics. Researchers analyzed over 70,000 results from patients under 15 years old with sore throat that where performed rapid strep test and only 24% where positive for group A streptococcus pharyngitis. When a at home strep test is performed can potentially eliminate the need for doctor's visits.

Difference Between a Sore Throat and Strep Throat Infection

Understanding the distinction between a sore throat and a strep throat infection is crucial for appropriate treatment. A sore throat can often be caused by a viral illness, and it is essential to differentiate this from a bacterial infection like strep throat to avoid the unnecessary use of antibiotics. Several different viruses can lead to the common cold and upper respiratory infections, which may result in a sore throat. These viral sore throats typically resolve on their own with at-home care, such as rest, hydration, and over-the-counter pain relievers.

In contrast, strep throat is a less common but more serious type of sore throat caused by streptococcal bacteria. This bacterial infection requires treatment with antibiotics to prevent complications. A rapid strep test is important for accurately identifying strep throat. If left untreated, strep throat can lead to serious health issues such as kidney inflammation and rheumatic fever. Rheumatic fever is a condition that can cause painful, inflamed joints, a rash, and even damage to heart valves, leading to long-term health problems. Therefore, accurate diagnosis and prompt treatment of strep throat are essential to prevent these potential complications and ensure effective recovery.

One of the significant benefits of rapid strep testing at home is the convenience it offers. Home testing allows individuals to quickly determine whether they have a bacterial infection without the need to visit a doctor's office, which can be time-consuming and costly. Early detection and treatment are facilitated, reducing the risk of complications and preventing the spread of infection to others. Additionally, home testing can help alleviate anxiety by providing quick and reliable results, enabling prompt medical intervention if necessary. This accessibility to rapid testing empowers individuals to take control of their health and make informed decisions about their treatment and care.

Strep A testing often involves a throat culture, which helps identify the presence of group A streptococcus bacteria. During the test, a healthcare professional swabs the back of the throat and tonsils. This simple procedure is essential in diagnosing and treating strep throat accurately.

Group A streptococcus bacteria can spread through droplets from a cough or sneeze, making prompt testing crucial. Early diagnosis ensures that appropriate treatment can be started quickly, helping to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications. Always seek advice from a healthcare provider if you suspect a strep infection.