VaCS is currently distributing InteliSwab COVID-19 Rapid Tests locally for free to anyone who would like them. If you would like to request additional tests please email us at vacs@cornell.edu

If you would like to donate to VaCS to help us get free COVID-19 tests to more people in our community, use the donate button below.

Instructions for using the COVID-19 test kits

Find the insert instructions here for how to use these COVID-19 test kits, or you can watch this video from the manufacturer to guide you through the process.

These tests were donated to us by Tompkins Cortland Masked Activity Collective (TCMAC), who received them as part of a Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response program (ASPR, an operating division of the US Department of Health and Human Services). TCMAC has some tips for more accurate COVID-19 testing on their website.

How do Rapid COVID-19 tests work?

COVID-19 rapid tests are a kind of test called a lateral flow immunoassay.

These tests detect the presence of the COVID-19 nucleocapsid protein (N protein) in the nasal swab sample you provide. The N protein is a part of the COVID-19 virus that helps it package its viral RNA and release viral particles from infected cells. Because this protein is found in all SARS-CoV viruses, it is used to tell if COVID-19 is present in your nasal swab sample or not.

The result of the COVID-19 test is displayed on a paper strip and is visualized on the test card by the presence or absence of a colored line. The sample well of the test strip contains a special gold-conjugated antibody that recognizes the N protein if present in your sample. This gold-conjugated antibody will grab onto any COVID-19 N protein in your sample and flow along with it across the paper as the liquid is drawn through the test strip. If the colored line appears in the “test” area, it’s because that gold-conjugated antibody gets stuck to another antibody affixed to the test area, causing an accumulation of colored particles which becomes visible.

If there is some N-protein but not enough in your sample, this can cause a faint test line. This is why it is important to view the test in good lighting. Additionally, you may consider repeating the test if it is negative and you are feeling ill.

Watch this video from WIRED that does a deep dive into the science behind the COVID-19 test for further explanation:

Can I use an expired COVID test?

COVID tests beyond the expiration dates may still be viable to use. You can check and see if your COVID test’s expiration date has been extended here. Expired tests are more likely to show false negative results due to components losing effectiveness. Improper storage conditions, such as fluctuations in temperature, can also effect test accuracy.

If you are feeling ill and decide to take a COVID test, you could try to use an expired test first if you have one on hand that you don’t want to go to waste. If you test positive, you can be assured that you do indeed have a COVID-19 infection. But, if you test negative, it’s best to test again soon after with a non-expired test to verify the negative result.