What is a COVID Antigen Test?
A COVID-19 antigen test detects coronavirus proteins in the mouth and throat. This test determines whether a patient is currently infected with COVID-19(coronavirus).
One of our pharmacists will take a swab from each nostril to test for a current COVID-19 infection. If the result of the test is negative, you will be emailed an EU Digital Covid Certificate in less than an hour which you can upload to your phone (Covid Tracker App or similar).
Antigen tests are not as accurate as a PCR test and are designed to detect the virus at levels that are more likely to mean you’re infectious and could spread the infection to others.
Who is this test suitable for?
The test is being offered primarily for the purpose of travel to EU countries.
The service is suitable for adults and children 8 years of age and older.
Who is it not suitable for?
- Anyone who has symptoms of Covid-19
- Anyone who thinks they have Covid-19
- Anyone who may be a close contact of someone has COVID-19
- Anyone who recently arrived in Ireland from somewhere where the advice is to self-isolate
How much does the test cost?
The cost of this test is €40
Travel and Eu Digital COVID Certificate
If you get a negative test you will receive an email with your EU Digital Covid Certificate. If you require this test for international travel please ensure you are familiar with the current requirements of the country you are entering. While some countries accept the results of rapid antigen tests (RATs) if taken less than 48 before arrival, others do not. It is your responsibility to book the test you require for your circumstances. Please be aware that the age requirement for testing of children also varies by country.
We recommend that you check https://dfa.ie/ regularly for the latest travel information. For EU travel, you can also refer to https://reopen.europa.eu/en
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 at the time of your appointment. Please bring your driver’s licence or Passport 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. 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.
- If you test positive, this means that COVID-19 virus was identified at the time of the testing and you will be advised to go directly home, self-isolate and book a PCR test by the HSE.