Covid-19 Rapid Antigen Testing
In-store COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Testing Service
Get a private COVID-19 same day swab test result*
What is the COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Testing Service?
We’re offering a private COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Testing Service. Our in-store service is a convenient way to get a nose swab antigen test to check for a current COVID-19 (coronavirus) infection.
It’s not a PCR test and doesn’t have to be processed in a laboratory. Using a device for analysis of the test, our specially trained colleagues will be able to process your results the same day. Results will typically be available in as little as an hour after your test.*
What’s the difference between a COVID-19 rapid antigen test and a COVID-19 PCR test?
Both tests check to see if the COVID-19 virus is currently in your body. While COVID-19 PCR tests detect viral RNA, COVID-19 rapid antigen tests detect viral proteins.
PCR tests are very accurate and can detect a COVID-19 infection even before the person becomes infectious. They require processing in a laboratory, so the cost and turnaround time is higher than for rapid antigen tests.
Unlike a PCR test, a rapid antigen test doesn’t have to be processed in a laboratory, so the cost is lower and the turnaround time quicker. However, they’re not as accurate as a PCR test because the rapid antigen test reveals patients at the peak of infection when the body has the highest concentration of these proteins.
Rapid antigen tests will find the virus in most people who have symptoms. In some cases, it may not pick up that you have the virus.
Who is the COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Testing Service suitable for?
The service is suitable for adults and children 7 years of age and older. It’s not suitable for anyone with symptoms of COVID-19 or anyone who thinks they may have COVID-19, which includes being a close contact.
Please don’t book an appointment or come into store if you, anyone in your household or support bubble have symptoms of COVID-19, or you are classed as a close contact. Instead, please stay at home and follow the latest government guidance.
The service is also not suitable if you’ve recently arrived in Ireland from a country where the advice is to self-isolate. Where this applies, you must follow the latest government advice on travel into Ireland.
If you require a test for international travel-related purposes, please ensure you’re familiar with the specific test required. While many countries accept the results of rapid antigen tests taken at a specified interval before travel, some do not. It’s your responsibility to book the test required for your specific circumstances.
How can I avail of the COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Testing Service?
You must register your details on our Book an Antigen Test page to order your test and fill in the registration form.
Full payment will only be taken once you arrive for your appointment. You’ll be able to leave the store as soon as you’ve had your swab taken. Once your result is ready, you’ll get an email to let you know your results are ready to view. If your result is negative, you’ll be able to download your results certificate.
How it works
| 1 | Book your appointment online Order your test online through the Book an Antigen Test page, then book your appointment online. Register your details, and enter your payment details |
| 2 | Visit Salthill Pharmacy for your swab test. A member of our team will swab your nose. You’ll then be able to leave the store whilst your test is being processed |
| 3 | Get your result. Once your result is available, you’ll get an email to let you know it’s ready. You can then view your result by logging into the portal |
How long will my appointment take?
The appointment, including taking the nose swab, will take less than 10 minutes. You’re then able to leave the store.
Price
This service costs €35.
Payment will be taken at your appointment.
Important appointment information
Please read this information carefully before coming in for your appointment.
• You’re required to bring a form of photo ID to verify your identity. If you’re using this service for travelling, this must be a passport. For other reasons, please bring your driver’s licence or another form of photo ID, such as your Public Services Card
• It’s important to ensure your full name, date of birth, and, if you’re travelling, your passport number is entered correctly onto the ReCoVa-19 portal. This is what will appear on your COVID-19 test certificate
• If you, anyone in your household or support bubble have any symptoms of COVID-19, have been advised to self-isolate due to recent travel, or are classed as a close contact, please don’t come into the pharmacy for your appointment. Instead, please call the pharmacy to cancel your appointment, and stay at home and follow the latest government guidance
• Remember to wear a face mask or covering and maintain social distancing whilst in store. You’ll need to remove your face mask or covering for the sample collection
• During the COVID-19 pandemic, we’re carefully controlling the number of people in our stores at any one time. Please arrive at the pharmacy at the correct time for your appointment. If you’re early, we may ask you not to enter the store until your allotted time. If you’re late, we may not be able to provide the test and can’t guarantee that we’ll be able to re-schedule your appointment. If you’re travelling to be tested with another person, we ask that each person attends alone at their scheduled time (unless a chaperone is required). Once your appointment is complete, we ask that you leave promptly. Thank you for your co-operation with these important health and safety measures
*Subject to specially trained colleague and stock availability. Available in selected stores.
‡Positive test result refers to positive refers to SARS CoV2 RNA Detected/Detected at low level. Negative test result refers to SARS CoV2 RNA not detected.
**Local rates, calls may be recorded for training purposes, hours of operations: 8.30am to 7pm Monday to Friday, 8.45am to 5pm on Saturday and Sunday, and 9am to 4pm on public holidays.
