At-home testing companies recently announced they will be launching “direct-to-consumer test kids” for the coronavirus. With the nation in such a vulnerable state, it is easy for these companies to thrive on the public’s growing fear of the virus. The kits are advertised as a way for consumers to take the initiative and safely test from home, rather than visiting a doctor’s office where they become more vulnerable to the germ. They claim the tests can be sent to the companies’ partner labs and tested with prompt, accurate results. However, at-home tests likely do not have all the resources needed to test for the virus. The FDA suggests everyone avoid at-home COVID-19 tests for the time being.
Avoid At-Home COVID-19 Tests
With prices anywhere from $130 to $180, there is still a possibility of improperly handling the test and then having follow-up questions that cannot be answered by these companies. The inaccuracy of results is almost guaranteed, which could leave patients in a panicked state. The Food and Drug Administration has advised that they have “not authorized any test that is available to purchase for testing yourself at home for COVID-19.” This announcement resulted in some companies temporarily ceasing the sales of their tests. Many of these companies are legitimate and have maintained successful businesses, while others have not and it is too early to declare medical testing is ready for an at-home kit. Until the FDA announces a reputable kit, it is hard for consumers to know which companies to trust. The best way to know if a test is a scam is if it offers immediate results.
Be Cautious of Miracle Solutions
Different social media accounts are introducing followers to a “Miracle Mineral Solution” that would actually be much more harmful than helpful. With the main ingredient being 
bleach, it can do a lot of damage to your body. Arthur Caplan of NYU School of Medicine insists, “there is nothing homeopathic or nutritional that can help you with the virus.” More recently, a certain fish tank cleaner containing the same ingredient found in chloroquine became popular, it is important to know that this cleaner can be fatal if ingested. The FDA is urging everyone to avoid any sort of chloroquine “unless it has been prescribed for you by your health care provider and obtained from legitimate sources.” The Department of Justice is adamant that Attorney General William Barr would be investigating and prosecuting coronavirus-related scammers. Scammers normally thrive on the public’s vulnerable state so it is crucial that we pay attention to the experts instead. It is important to note that when a treatment or vaccine becomes available, the FDA will make it known to the general public so we can rid ourselves of this virus as quickly as possible.
Stop the Spread of the Coronavirus!
As always, stay in your homes as much as possible. Wash your hands and disinfect surfaces in your home and cars regularly. If you are still going to the office each day, sanitize your hands regularly throughout your shift and keep your work space clean. If you feel sick, do NOT go to work, for your sake as well as those around you. Maintain a safe distance from people in public at all times, but most importantly: maintain your health! Reach out to your doctor by phone before going in to a clinic or hospital.
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