Flowflex L031-118B5 COVID-19 Antigen Home Test Installation Guide
- May 15, 2024
- Flowflex
Table of Contents
Flowflex L031-118B5 COVID-19 Antigen Home Test
Product Information
Specifications:
- Product Name: COVID-19 Antigen Home Test
- Model Number: REF L031-118B5
- Intended Use: Detection of SARS-CoV-2 antigens in anterior nasal specimens
- Usage: Self-testing under Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) only
Product Usage Instructions
Preparation:
- Wash or sanitize your hands.
- Ensure hands are dry before starting the test.
- Read the instructions carefully.
Kit Contents:
- Flowflex QR code
- Extraction Disposable Test Cassette
- Buffer Tube
- Nasal Swab
- Tube Holder (only for 25 test quantity)
- Timer
- Package Insert (Not included)
Specimen Collection:
- Anterior nasal swab sample can be self-collected by individuals aged 14 years and older.
- Children aged 2 to 13 years should be tested by an adult.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
-
Q: What should I do if I encounter difficulties during the test procedure?
A: If you encounter any difficulties or have questions during the test procedure, refer to the package insert for troubleshooting steps. If issues persist, contact customer support for assistance. -
Q: How should I dispose of the used testing components?
A: Dispose of the used nasal swab, extraction buffer tube, and any other disposable components in a proper waste disposal container following local regulations for biohazardous waste.
COVID-19 Antigen Home Test Package Insert
REF
L031-118B5
A rapid test for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 antigens in anterior nasal
specimens. For self-testing use. For use under an Emergency Use Authorization
(EUA) only.
Carefully read the instructions before performing the test. Failure to follow
the instructions may result in inaccurate test results.
KIT CONTENTS
- Test Cassette
- Extraction Buffer Tube
- Disposable Nasal Swab
- Tube Holder (only for 25 test quantity)
- Package Insert
- Timer (Not included)
The Flowflex Web App allows you to track and report your COVID-19 test results
- The Web App is optional and not required to run a COVID-19 test. It will assist you in interpreting your visual test result and report your result to local health authorities. Ensure you have an internet connection and scan the
- Flowflex QR code or go to www.flowflexcovid.com prior to starting the test.
- Ensure you are using a compatible web browser (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, or Safari) and your electronic device has a camera.
- Click on “Report Your Test Result”.
- Create an account.
- Click on “Report Your Test Result”.
- Create an account.
To perform a COVID-19 test
- Log in to the Flowflex Web App – Ensure you are connected to the internet during your test.
- Answer a few questions on the Web App.
- Follow step-by-step instructions for your test.
- Read result.
PREPARATION
- Wash or sanitize your hands. Make sure they are dry before starting the test.
- Read the instructions.
- Check your kit contents and make sure you have everything. Check the expiration date printed on the cassette foil pouch. Do not use if the pouch is damaged or open.
- Open the pouch and lay the cassette on a clean, flat surface. Locate the Result Window and Sample Well on the cassette.
SPECIMEN COLLECTION
- SELF COLLECTION
- COLLECTION BY AN ADULT
- An anterior nasal swab sample can be self-collected by an individual aged 14 years and older. Children aged 2 to 13 years should be tested by an adult.
TEST PROCEDURE
-
Remove the foil from the top of the extraction buffer tube.
-
Punch through the perforated circle on the kit box to form a tube holder. Place the tube in the tube holder. For 25 test quantity kit box the tube holder is provided.
-
Open the swab packaging at the stick end, not the swab tip. Do not touch the swab tip.
-
Gently insert the entire absorbent tip of the swab into 1 nostril (½ to ¾ of an inch). With children, the maximum depth of insertion into the nostril may be less than ¾ of an inch, and you may need to have a second person to hold the child’s head while swabbing.
Note: A false negative result may occur if the nasal swab specimen is not properly collected. -
Firmly rub the swab in a circular motion around the inside wall of the nostril 5 times. Take approximately 15 seconds to collect the specimen. Be sure to collect any nasal drainage that may be present onto the swab. Repeat this in the other nostril.
-
Remove the swab from the nostril and immediately place into the extraction buffer tube.
Note: Test samples immediately after collection, and no more than one hour after the swab is added to the reagent solution, if stored at room temperature. -
Immediately place the swab into the tube and swirl for 30 seconds.
Note: A false negative result may occur if the swab is not swirled at least 30 seconds. -
Rotate the swab 5 times while squeezing the tube.
Note: A false negative result may occur if the swab is not rotated five times. -
Remove the swab while squeezing the tube. Dispose of the swab in the trash.
-
Attach the dropper tip firmly onto the tube. Mix thoroughly by swirling or flicking the bottom of the tube.
-
Attach the dropper tip firmly onto the tube. Mix thoroughly by swirling or flicking the bottom of the tube.
-
Set the timer for 15 minutes. Result should be read at 15 minutes. Do not read after 30 minutes. Dispose the test cassette in the trash. Note: A false negative or false positive result may occur if the test result is read before 15 minutes or after 30 minutes.
RESULT INTERPRETATION
If the Control (C) line is visible, but the Test (T) line is not visible, the test is negative. To increase the chance that the negative result for COVID-19 is accurate, you should:
-
Test again in 48 hours if you have symptoms on the first day of testing.
-
Test 2 more times at least 48 hours apart if you do not have symptoms on the first day of testing. A negative test result indicates that antigens from the virus that causes COVID-19 was not detected in your sample. A negative result is presumptive, meaning it is not certain that you do not have COVID-19. You may still have COVID-19 and you may still be contagious. There is a higher chance of false negative results with antigen tests compared to laboratory-based tests such as PCR. If you test negative and continue to experience COVID-19-like symptoms, (e.g., fever, cough, and/or shortness of breath) you should seek follow up care with your healthcare provider.
-
If the Control (C) line and the Test (T) line are visible, the test is positive. Any faint visible red or pink test (T) line with the control line (C) should be read as positive. You do not need to perform repeat testing if you have a positive result at any time.
-
A positive test result means that the virus that causes COVID-19 was detected in your sample and it is very likely you have COVID-19 and are contagious. Please contact your doctor/primary care physician or your local health authority immediately and adhere to the local guidelines regarding self-isolation. There is a very small chance that this test can give a positive result that is incorrect (a false positive).
HOW TO USE THIS TEST
- Serial testing should be performed in all individuals with negative results; individuals with symptoms of COVID-19 and initial negative results should be tested again after 48 hours. Individuals without symptoms of COVID-19, and with initial negative results, should be tested again after 48 hours and, if the 2nd test is also negative, a 3rd time after an additional 48 hours. You may need to purchase additional tests to perform this serial (repeat) testing.
- If you test negative but continue to have symptoms of COVID-19, and both your first and second tests are negative, you may not have COVID-19, however you should follow-up with your healthcare provider.
- If your test is positive, then proteins from the virus that causes COVID-19 have been found in your sample and you likely have COVID-19.
TEST INTERPRETATION
Repeat testing is needed to improve test accuracy. Please follow the table
below when interpreting test results for COVID-19.
Status on first day of Testing| First Result Day 1| Second Result
Day 3| Third Result Day 5| Interpretation
---|---|---|---|---
With Symptoms| Positive| N/A| N/A| Positive for COVID-19
Negative| Positive| N/A| Positive for COVID-19
Negative| Negative| N/A| Negative for COVID-19
Without Symptoms| Positive| N/A| N/A| Positive for COVID-19
Negative| Positive| N/A| Positive for COVID-19
Negative| Negative| Positive| Positive for COVID-19
Negative| Negative| Negative| Negative for COVID-19
Results should be considered in the context of an individual’s recent exposures, history, and the presence of clinical signs and symptoms consistent with COVID-19.
FOR FDA EMERGENCY USE AUTHORIZATION (EUA) ONLY
-
In the USA, this product has not been FDA cleared or approved but has been authorized by FDA under an EUA.
-
This product has been authorized only for the detection of proteins from SARS-CoV-2, not for any other viruses or pathogens.
The emergency use of this product is only authorized for the duration of the declaration that circumstances exist justifying the authorization of emergency use of IVDs for detection and/or diagnosis of COVID-19 under Section 564(b)(1) of the Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, 21 U.S.C. § 360bbb-3(b)(1), unless the declaration is terminated, or authorization is revoked sooner. -
For more information on EUAs please visit: https://www.fda.gov/emergency-preparedness-and-response/mcm-legal-regulatory-and-policy-framework/emergency-use-authorization
INTENDED USE
-
The Flowflex COVID-19 Antigen Home Test is a lateral flow immunoassay device intended for the qualitative detection of the nucleocapsid protein antigen from SARS-CoV-2 virus.
-
This test is authorized for non-prescription home use with self-collected anterior nasal (nares) swab samples from individuals aged 14 years or older or adult collected anterior nasal (nares) swab samples from individuals aged 2 years or older. This test is authorized for individuals with symptoms of COVID-19 within the first 7 days of symptom onset when tested at least twice over three days with at least 48 hours between tests, and for individuals without symptoms or other epidemiological reasons to suspect COVID-19, when tested at least three times over five days with at least 48 hours between tests.
-
The Flowflex COVID-19 Antigen Home Test can be performed with or without the supervision of a telehealth proctor. The Flowflex COVID-19 Antigen Home Test does not differentiate between SARS-CoV and SARS-CoV-2.
-
Results are for the identification of SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein antigen, which is generally detectable in nasal (nares) samples during the acute phase of infection.
Positive results indicate the presence of viral antigens, but clinical correlation with patient history and other diagnostic information is necessary to determine infection status. Positive results do not rule out bacterial infection or co-infection with other viruses and the agent detected may not be the definitive cause of disease. Individuals who test positive with the Flowflex COVID-19 Antigen Home Test should self-isolate and seek follow up care with their physician or healthcare provider as additional testing may be necessary. -
All negative results are presumptive, and confirmation with a molecular assay, if necessary for patient management, may be performed. Negative results do not rule out SARS-CoV-2 infection and should not be used as the sole basis for treatment or patient management decisions, including infection control measures such as isolating from others and wearing masks. Negative results should be considered in the context of an individual’s recent exposures, history and the presence of clinical signs and symptoms consistent with COVID-19. Individuals who test negative and continue to experience COVID-19 like symptoms of fever, cough and/or shortness of breath may still have SARS-CoV-2 infection and should seek follow up care from their healthcare provider.
-
Individuals should provide all results obtained with this product to their healthcare provider for public health reporting and to receive appropriate medical care. All healthcare providers will report all test results they received from individuals who use the authorized product to relevant public health authorities in accordance with local, state, and federal requirements, using appropriate LOINC and SNOMED codes, as defined by the Laboratory In
-
Vitro Diagnostics (LIVD) Test Code Mapping for SARS-CoV-2 Tests provided by CDC. The Flowflex COVID-19 Antigen Home Test is intended for non-prescription self-use and/or as applicable, for an adult lay user testing another aged 2 or older. The Flowflex COVID-19 Antigen Home Test is only for in vitro diagnostic use under the Food and Drug Administration’s Emergency Use Authorization. This product has not been FDA cleared or approved.
SUMMARY
The novel coronaviruses belong to the β genus. COVID-19 is an acute
respiratory infectious disease. People are generally susceptible. Currently,
the patients infected by the novel coronavirus are the main source of
infection; asymptomatic infected people can also be an infectious source.
Based on the current epidemiological investigation, the incubation period is 1
to 14 days, mostly 3 to 7 days. The main manifestations include fever, fatigue
and dry cough. Nasal congestion, runny nose, sore throat, myalgia and diarrhea
are found in a few cases.
WARNINGS, PRECAUTIONS, AND SAFETY INFORMATION
- Read the Flowflex COVID-19 Antigen Home Test Package Insert carefully before performing a test. Failure to follow directions may produce inaccurate test results.
- Serial testing should be performed in individuals with negative results at least twice over three days (with 48 hours between tests) for symptomatic individuals and three times over five days (with at least 48 hours between tests) for asymptomatic individuals. You may need to purchase additional tests to perform this serial (repeat) testing.
- If you have symptoms longer than 7 days you should consider testing at least three times over five days with at least 48 hours between tests.
- The Test is intended to aid in the diagnosis of active COVID-19. Please consult a healthcare professional to discuss your results and if any additional testing is required.
- Keep test kit and materials out of the reach of children and pets before and after use.
- An anterior nasal swab sample can be self-collected by an individual age 14 years and older. Children age 2 to 13 years should be tested by an adult.
- Do not use on anyone under 2 years of age.
- Wear a safety mask or other face-covering when collecting a specimen from a child or another individual.
- Leave the test cassette sealed in its pouch until just before use. Once opened, the test cassette should be used within 60 minutes.
- Do not use the test after the expiration date shown on the test cassette pouch. For more information on expiration dating for COVID-19 antigen tests, please refer to http://www.fda.gov/covid-tests
- Do not use if any of the test kit contents or packaging is damaged or open.
- Test components are single-use. Do not re-use. Do not use with multiple specimens.
- Make sure there is sufficient light when testing.
- Do not use nasal sprays for at least 30 minutes before collecting a nasal sample.
- Remove any piercings from the nose before starting the test.
- Do not use on anyone who is prone to nosebleeds or has had facial injuries or head injuries/surgery in the past six months.
- False negative test results may occur if a specimen is incorrectly collected or handled.
- Do not touch the swab tip when handling the swab.
- Do not read test results before 15 minutes or after 30 minutes. Results read before 15 minutes or after 30 minutes may lead to a false positive, false negative, or invalid result.
- This test has not been validated for use with a video camera and faint bands may not be visible to a telehealth proctor due to differences between cameras.
- If applicable: Keep testing kit and kit components away from children and pets before and after use. Avoid contact with your skin, eyes, nose, or mouth. Do not ingest any kit components.
- The Reagent Solution contains a harmful chemical (see table below).
Hazardous Ingredients for the Reagent Solution
Hazardous Ingredients for the Reagent Solution
Chemical Name| Harms (GHS) code for each ingredient|
Concentration
TX-100|
- H302 Acute oral toxicity H315 Skin irritation
- H318 Serious eye damage
- H400 Short-term (acute) aquatic hazard H410 Long-term (chronic) aquatic hazard
| 1%
Sodium Azide|
- H300 Acute oral toxicity H310 Acute dermal toxicity H373 Oral, Brain toxicity
- H400 Short-term (acute) aquatic hazard H410 Long-term (chronic) aquatic hazard
| 0.02%
If the reagent solution contacts the skin, eyes, nose, or mouth, flush with large amounts of water. If irritation persists, seek medical advice. https://www.poisonhelp.org or 1-800-222-1222
Serial Testing Information and Limitations
-
If you have symptoms of COVID-19 that started within the last 7 days, you may need to test at least twice over three days with at least 48 hours between tests.
If you do not have symptoms of COVID-19, you may need to test at least three times over five days with at least 48 hours between tests. -
For serial testing, if your first test result is negative, you should test again in 48 hours if you have symptoms on the first day of testing, and test 2 more times at least 48 hours apart if you do not have symptoms on the first day of testing. You may need to purchase additional tests to perform this serial (repeat) testing.
-
There is a higher chance of false negative results with antigen tests than with laboratory-based molecular tests due to the sensitivity of the test technology. This means that there is a higher chance this test will give a false negative result in an individual with COVID-19 as compared to a molecular test, especially in samples with low viral load.
-
The performance of this test was established based on the evaluation of a limited number of clinical specimens collected between March, 2021 and May, 2021. The clinical performance has not been established for all circulating variants but is anticipated to be reflective of the prevalent variants in circulation at the time and location of the clinical evaluation. Performance at the time of testing may vary depending on the variants circulating, including newly emerging strains of SARS-CoV-2 and their prevalence, which change over time.
-
All COVID-19 antigen test negative results are presumptive and confirmation with a molecular assay may be necessary. If you continue to have symptoms of COVID-19, and both your first and second tests are negative, you may not have COVID-19, however you should follow-up with a healthcare provider. If the test is positive, then proteins from the virus that causes COVID-19 have been found in the sample and you likely have COVID-19.
-
This test is read visually and has not been validated for use by those with impaired vision or color-impaired vision.
-
Incorrect test results may occur if a specimen is incorrectly collected or handled.
STORAGE AND STABILITY
- Store Flowflex COVID-19 Antigen Home Test between 2-30°C (36-86°F) until use.
- Ensure all kit components are at room temperature before use.
- Kit contents are stable until the expiration date printed on the outer packaging.
- Do not use beyond the expiration date.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
-
Q: WHAT IS COVID-19?
- A: COVID-19 is caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus which is a new virus in humans causing a contagious respiratory illness. COVID-19 can present with mild to severe illness, although some people infected with COVID-19 may have no symptoms at all. Older adults and people of any age who have underlying medical conditions have a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19. Serious outcomes of COVID-19 include hospitalization and death. The SARS-CoV-2 virus can be spread to others even before a person shows signs or symptoms of being sick (e.g., fever, coughing, difficulty breathing, etc.). A full list of symptoms of COVID-19 can be found at the following link: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html
-
Q: WILL THIS TEST HURT?
- A: No, the nasal swab is not sharp, and it should not hurt. Sometimes the swab can feel slightly uncomfortable. If you feel pain, please stop the test and seek advice from your healthcare provider.
-
Q: WHAT ARE THE KNOWN POTENTIAL RISKS AND BENEFITS OF THIS TEST?
-
A: Potential risks include:
-
Possible discomfort during sample collection.
-
Possible incorrect test results (see Warnings and Result Interpretation section).
Potential benefits include: -
The results, along with other information, can help you and your healthcare provider make informed decisions about your care.
-
The results of this test may help limit the spread of COVID-19 to your family and others in your community.
-
-
Q: WHAT IS SERIAL TESTING?
- A: Serial testing is when one person tests themselves multiple times for COVID-19 on a routine basis, such as every day or every other day. By testing more frequently, you may detect COVID-19 more quickly and reduce spread of infection. Serial testing (i.e. testing every day or every other day) is more likely to detect COVID-19, especially when you do not have any symptoms. Individuals with symptoms of COVID-19 and initial negative results should be tested again after 48 hours. Individuals without symptoms of COVID-19, and with initial negative results, should be tested again after 48 hours and, if the 2nd test is also negative, a 3rd time after an additional 48 hours. You may need to purchase additional tests to perform this serial (repeat) testing.
-
Q: WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN ANTIGEN AND MOLECULAR TEST?
- A: There are different kinds of tests for the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19. Molecular tests detect genetic material from the virus. Antigen tests, such as the Flowflex COVID-19 Antigen Home Test, detect proteins from the virus. Due to the lower sensitivity of antigen tests, there is a higher chance this test will give you a negative result when you have COVID-19 than a molecular test would.
-
Q: HOW ACCURATE IS THIS TEST?
- A: Clinical studies have shown that antigen tests more accurately determine whether you are infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 when taken multiple times across several days. Repeat testing improves test accuracy. This serial testing approach is recommended to minimize the risk of incorrect results. For more information on the performance of the test and how the performance may apply to you, please refer to the performance data in the Healthcare Provider Instructions for Use (IFU), available at www.flowflexcovid.com.
-
Q: WHAT IF I HAVE A POSITIVE TEST RESULT?
- A: A positive result means that it is very likely you have COVID-19 because proteins from the virus that causes COVID-19 were found in your sample. You should self-isolate from others and contact a healthcare provider for medical advice about your positive result.
-
Q: WHAT IF I HAVE A NEGATIVE TEST RESULT?
- A: A negative test result indicates that antigens from the virus that causes COVID-19 were not detected in your sample. However, if you have symptoms of COVID-19, and your first test is negative, you should test again in 48 hours since antigen tests are not as sensitive as molecular tests. If you do not have symptoms and received a negative result, you should test at least two more times with 48 hours in between tests for a total of three tests. If you have a negative result, it does not rule out SARS-CoV-2 infection; you may still be infected and you may still infect others. It is important that you work with your healthcare provider to help you understand the next steps you should take.
-
Q: WHAT DOES AN INVALID TEST RESULT MEAN?
- A: An invalid result means the test was not able to tell if you have COVID-19 or not. If the test is invalid, a new swab should be used to collect a new nasal specimen and the test should be run again, using a new test cassette and extraction buffer tube.
IMPORTANT
This test is intended to be used as an aid in the clinical diagnosis of
active COVID-19. Do not use this test as the only guide to manage your
illness. Please consult your healthcare provider if your symptoms persist or
become more severe, or if you are concerned at any time.
Individuals should report the test result through the Flowflex Web App or
provide all results obtained with this product to their healthcare provider
for public health reporting.
HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS
Please visit www.flowflexcovid.com to obtain the complete instructions for use and fact sheet for healthcare providers.
Index of Symbols
- ACON Laboratories, Inc.
- San Diego, CA 92121, USA flowflexcovid.com
- Customer Support : 1-800-838-9502
- Number: 1151297706
- Effective Date: 2023-03-15
References
- Flowflex COVID-19 Antigen Home Test - Flowflexcovid.com
- Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) | CDC
- Flowflex COVID-19 Antigen Home Test - Flowflexcovid.com
- Flowflex COVID-19 Antigen Home Test - Flowflexcovid.com
- Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) | CDC
- Symptoms of COVID-19 | CDC
- At-Home OTC COVID-19 Diagnostic Tests | FDA
- 800-222-1222" class="nturl" > Poison Control | Call Poison Help Centers Now 1-800-222-1222
- 800-222-1222" class="nturl" > Poison Control | Call Poison Help Centers Now 1-800-222-1222
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