Rapid antigen testing

Rapid antigen tests, often abbreviated ‘RAT’, are generally taken with a front of nose swab and detect the presence of specific proteins on the outer portion of the virus, such as the spike protein.
This is different from the RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) test currently widely used in New Zealand which detects genetic material called RNA. Samples used for RT-PCR tests are collected with nasopharyngeal swabs, a combination oral and nasal swab (oropharyngeal anterior nares), or saliva.

Click below to learn more:

• About rapid antigen tests
• General procedures for how to use a testing device
• Public health response including emergency services
• Government agencies
• Rapid antigen tests for unvaccinated domestic travellers
• Rapid antigen tests for business, agencies, and organisations
• Cost of RATs

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