Frequently Asked Questions

01. About The Test

Where can I find Lucira Tests?

Lucira is available to purchase in the United States and Canada directly from our website. Visit our online store for healthcare providers or for individuals in the US , and our online store for individuals in Canada.

Additionally, Lucira is authorized for sale in many international regions, such as Israel, New Zealand, Puerto Rico, Singapore and Taiwan. For international sales interest, please contact Sales.

Can you tell me more about PCR-quality accuracy?

The Lucira Check It COVID-19 Test is a diagnostic tool to detect SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19. The Lucira COVID-19 & Flu Test is a diagnostic tool to detect SARS-CoV-2, Influenza A, and Influenza B. The tests detects if you have an active infection and does not confirm immunity or detect antibodies. Each test is a molecular test that amplifies the virus’s genetic material while the test is running, just like PCR lab tests. Lucira’s amplification method provides a level of accuracy comparable to one of the highest sensitivity lab PCR tests.

Can this test detect new SARS-CoV-2 variants and Flu strains?

Lucira detects all COVID-19 variants of interest and concern, including Omicron and its BA subvariants. Lucira performs routine surveillance of emerging SARS-CoV-2 and Influenza strains and will continue to monitor the situation with emerging variants.

For the latest variant information, please visit: www.lucirahealth.com/technical-brief.

What is the difference between Flu A and Flu B?

The two most common types of influenza are influenza A & B. This test tests for both of these types of flu. If you test positive for either influenza A (Flu A) or influenza B (Flu B), you have the flu.

How many times can I use a test?

Each test is single use and comes with everything needed to run 1 molecular diagnostic test.

What is the shelf life?

The Lucira COVID-19 and Flu Test has a shelf life of 12 months. The Lucira COVID-19 Test has a shelf life of 18 months; read our Note on Shelf Life Extension for more information.

What are the storage requirements?

Store and use Lucira between 59-86°F/15-30°C.

What ages are these self-tests authorized for?

The test is indicated for self-collection for all people aged 14 years or older and for children as young as two years old when samples are collected by an adult.

Will these test tell me if I have been infected with COVID-19 and/or flu in the past?

No. The Lucira Check It COVID-19 Test only detects if you have an active SARS-CoV-2 (or COVID-19) infection and does not confirm immunity or detect antibodies. Similarly, the Lucira COVID & Flu Test only detects if you have an active SARS-CoV-2, Flu A, and/or Flu B infection and does not confirm immunity or detect antibodies.

If I’m vaccinated, can I use these tests?

Yes. Being vaccinated will not affect your Lucira test results.

Do I need to consult a doctor or another healthcare professional before purchasing and conducting a test?

No, these tests do not require a prescription from a medical professional. However, if you have questions about your health, you should contact your doctor. If you receive a positive result, you should contact your healthcare professional.

Can I use this COVID test to meet travel requirements for testing?

It is important to check with your airline and/or travel destination for further details and restrictions, as this may vary from destination to destination.

Lucira is a high performing molecular test, equivalent to other tests accepted by most travel destinations. Our LUCI PASS, a verified Lucira test result on your phone, provides all the information typically required for proof of negative COVID-19 status for travel.

What technology does the Lucira test use?

RT-LAMP is the type of molecular amplification that is used in the Lucira test. Just like PCR lab tests, the Lucira test amplifies the virus’s genetic material while the test is running. The amplification that occurs in PCR and the Lucira test allows molecular tests to detect a positive sample with greater sensitivity than antigen tests. As a result, Lucira’s accuracy is comparable to one of the highest sensitivity lab PCR tests.¹

1. Data on File

What do sensitivity and specificity mean?

Sensitivity refers to a test’s ability to designate an individual with infection as positive. Specificity of a test is its ability to designate an individual who does not have an infection as negative.

What is the difference between molecular tests like PCR and Lucira and antigen tests?

There are two types of tests that detect for active infections: molecular and antigen tests. Molecular tests, such as PCR and Lucira, have higher sensitivity and can detect when virus is present in a sample at significantly lower viral levels versus antigen tests. Molecular tests copy the virus’s genetic material over and over while the test is running in a process called amplification. This allows molecular tests to detect whether someone is positive for the SARS-CoV-2 virus when only a small amount of virus is present.

Antigen tests, which are generally cheaper than molecular tests, do not copy or amplify the viral target and require much high levels of virus in a sample to be able to detect a positive result. In fact, antigen tests require 34 time¹ more starting virus than molecular tests like Lucira to detect a positive. Several studies² done in the UK and India report that the antigen tests used there are less sensitive than molecular tests and can more often result in false negatives.

Molecular tests are considered diagnostically definitive and do not typically require follow-up confirmatory testing. They are able to detect viruses across a broader range of viral loads, making them more sensitive and reliable.

1. Based on the median Limit of Detection of 20 antigen tests authorized by the FDA as of June 1, 2021
2. Mahase E. (2020). Covid-19: Innova lateral flow test is not fit for “test and release” strategy, say experts. BMJ, 371 :m4469. doi:10.1136/bmj.m4469. Debroy, S. (2021, June 21). Covid-19: 34% of RAT results false negatives, turn positive on RT-PCR testing, finds study. The Times of India. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/34-ofrat-results-false-negatives-turn-positive-on-rt-pcr-testing-finds-study/articleshow/83701379.cmss

Can I test positive for both COVID-19 and flu?

Yes. The Lucira COVID-19 & Flu Test will determine the presence of SARS-CoV-2, which causes COVID-19, Flu A, and Flu B in your sample.

02. Using The Test

What if I have questions about how to use this test when it arrives?

Each kit comes with instructions inside of it. You can see those instructions here, too. It’s important to carefully read and follow the instructions for the test to work properly. We also provide a video demonstration on our website.

How are these tests administered?

Using Lucira is simple, even for people who have never tested themselves. Lucira tests use a shallow nasal swab, not a deep nasopharyngeal swab. All materials required to perform one Lucira test come in the box. Each test will include illustrated instructions that provide a step-by-step guide on how to use the test.

Will this test hurt?

No, the nasal swab is not sharp and it should not hurt. Sometimes the swab can feel slightly uncomfortable or tickly.

Can I collect a swab sample if I blow my nose first or if I have a runny nose?

Yes, collect the swab per instructions. Blowing your nose or having a runny nose will not affect the test performance.

Can I collect a swab sample if I have a dry nose?

Yes, you should follow the swabbing instructions.

Can I take the test if I have used a saline rinse or nasal spray?

No, if you have used a saline rinse or nasal spray you should wait 12 hours from administration of these sprays until you take the Lucira test.

How long do the results take?

The Lucira test can show a positive result in as little as 11 minutes while negative results take 30 minutes.

Do I need any additional supplies to conduct the test at home?

No, all the materials required to perform one Lucira test come inside the test box.

What are the known potential risks and benefits of this test?

Potential risks include:

Possible discomfort during sample collection
Possible incorrect test results

Potential benefits include:

The results, along with other information, can help your healthcare provider make informed recommendations about your care.
The results of this test may help limit the spread of infection to your family and others in your community.

What’s an invalid result?

An invalid result means something with the test did not work properly. The chance of getting an invalid result is low. If the test result is invalid, all the lights on the device will be blinking. If your test shows an invalid result, please contact us at 1-888-582-4724. We will assist you and provide you a replacement test free of charge.

What are the causes that can lead to an invalid?

Following each step of the instructions is important to avoid causing invalids. Test kits should only be used when you are ready to perform the test. The test pouches should not be opened and batteries should not be inserted until you’re ready to perform the test. Staging or setting tests up in advance of performing the test can cause invalid results.

If I have other questions, how do I contact Lucira?

We're here for you. You can call Customer Service at 1-888-582-4724 or email us at cs@lucirahealth.com.

03. Lucira Connect

What is Lucira Connect?

Lucira Connect is a digital platform that can connect you with a telehealth provider to discuss care and treatment options if you test positive for COVID-19 or the flu. Antiviral treatments are more effective the earlier you take them. Lucira Connect is one of the fastest ways to treatment. When you upload a positive test result at luciraconnect.com, our Lucira Connect digital platform presents the option to connect with a leading telehealth provider. If eligible, get medication prescribed for same-day pick-up at your pharmacy or, if available, have it delivered directly to your door.

Additionally, you’ll receive a test report when you submit your Lucira test result to Lucira Connect. The report is a free, digitally verified Lucira test result on your smartphone.

How long is my Test Report good for?

Your test report is stored in your Lucira Connect account and is accessed by logging into luciraconnect.com. You will also receive an email with the PDF version attached, and you can save your test report in your Apple Health app with an iPhone. Your test report will be accessible via luciraconnect.com for 1 year.

Will my personal or health information be shared?

Lucira will not share your personal or health information without your express consent.

04. Ordering Tests

When will I get my order?

All orders should be processed within 3-4 business days. After processing, STANDARD Shipping orders should arrive within 3-7 BUSINESS DAYS, or EXPEDITED Shipping orders should arrive within 2-5 BUSINESS DAYS. Once your order ships, you'll receive a confirmation email with tracking information

Do you ship outside of Canada?

Yes. For the US, visit our online store for healthcare providers and for individuals.

Additionally, Lucira is authorized for sales in Israel, Puerto Rico, Singapore and Taiwan. For international sales interest, please contact sales.

Frequently Asked Questions

01.

About The Test

02.

Using The Test

03.

Lucira Connect

04.

Ordering Tests

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