Based on reports by the FDA, self-test kits have high chances of giving false negatives with the Omicron variant of the Covid-19 virus.
"Initial data did show its effectiveness in detecting Omicron, however, with further studies, the tests could also be running at a lower sensitivity", said the agency.
Sensitivity measures how far a test can go to detect a positive in a person with the Covid-19 virus. Prior tests focused on viruses which weren't heat-activated.
However, the FDA continues to allow the usage of antigen test-kits, provided users follow given instructions. For instance, taking it twice with a certain time apart, before confirming a negative.
If someone tests negative from a self-test kit, but has symptoms of the virus, or has been in close-contact with a Covid-19 positive, then they are encouraged to take a PCR test, as it would prove more effective in detecting Omicron.
