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Covid - 19 Antigen Testing

 

WHAT IS A COVID ANTIGEN TEST?

An Antigen test is a technology adapted to detect antigens that are present when a person has COVID-19. One of our pharmacists will take a swab from each nostril to test for a current COVID-19 (coronavirus) infection. If the result of the test is negative, you will be emailed an EU Digital Covid Certificate in less than one hour which you can upload to your phone (Covid Tracker App or similar).

ANTIGEN TEST VS. PCR TEST

Antigen tests are not as accurate as a PCR test. Rapid antigen tests are designed to detect the virus at levels that are more likely to mean you’re infectious and could spread the infection to others. Antigen tests are well suited to those who are travelling, if an antigen test is all that is required.

 

WHO IS THE TEST SUITABLE FOR?

The test is not suitable for anyone:

  • with symptoms of Covid-19
  • who thinks they may have Covid-19
  • who may be a close contact of someone with Covid-19
  • who recently arrived in Ireland from somewhere where the advice is to self-isolate

 

HOW DO I BOOK?

The cost of the test is €45 per person.

You can book your service in participating stores by clicking on a store below and selecting Antigen Test Service

The Antigen Test Service is subject to appointment, specially trained staff and availability of stock.

 


Antigen Test Frequently Asked Questions

 

When will I receive an EU digital Covid Certificate?

If you get a negative test you will receive an email with your EU Digital Covid Certificate. Please ensure you are familiar with the current requirements of the country you are entering. Some countries accept the antigen test if taken less than 48 before arrival, others do not. Not all countries will accept an antigen test, some countries will only accept a PCR test. It is your responsibility to book the test you require for your circumstances. Please be aware that the age requirement for testing of children also varies by country.

 

Although the test has high sensitivity and specificity, it’s not 100% accurate and may give false-positive or false-negative results.

If you test positive, this means that the COVID-19 virus was identified at the time of testing and you will be recommended to get a PCR test by the HSE.

If you test negative, the result of your test will be submitted to the OGCIO for the purposes of producing an EU certificate. A negative result means that the COVID-19 virus was not identified in at the time of testing. It does not indicate that you haven’t had COVID-19 or that you won’t develop the virus in the future.

 

What do I need to bring with me to the Test?

You will need to bring photo ID e.g. passport, driver’s licence or public services card to confirm identity.

We recommend that you check https://dfa.ie/ regularly for the latest travel information. For EU travel, you can also refer to https://reopen.europa.eu/en

 

How much does the Antigen Test Cost?

The cost of the test is €45 per person.

Hickey's Pharmacy will not be liable to you for any losses, costs or damages that you suffer or incur as a result of receiving a positive test result (including if you’re unable to travel abroad as a result of testing positive).