Antigen test
Antigen test
Last update: 25/05/2022The antigen test looks for proteins on the surface of the virus. They are only detectable if the virus is alive.
The antigen test is done from a nasal swab taken with a swab. It doesn’t have to be sent to a lab. A few drops of reagent are mixed with the sample collected and then deposited on a small strip which changes colour depending on whether the patient is positive or negative for SARS-CoV-2 (just like a pregnancy test).
The result is quick. The waiting time can vary from 10 to 30 minutes.
- If you need to travel to a country that accepts antigen tests for entry to its territory
- If you have had symptoms for less than four days
If the antigen test produces a positive result, you are considered to be a confirmed case whether you are symptomatic or asymptomatic. You should self-isolate for 7 days from the date of the positive test or the onset of your symptoms if they began before you took the test.
If your PCR/rapid antigen test was carried out in Monaco, you can request a recovery certificate by completing the online form available on the following link.
I can get tested at any age at:
- Doctors
- Nurses
- Medical biology laboratories
- Chemists
From age 12 up, by:
- Red Cross first aiders
- Military Force soldiers
- Police Department staff
It is quicker than the PCR test and gives a result in 15-30 minutes.
The 15 chemists offering the test, by appointment and with or without a prescription are:
- Pharmacie de l’Annonciade
- Pharmacie de l’Estoril
- Pharmacie de Fontvieille
- Pharmacie Internationale
- Pharmacie du Jardin Exotique
- Pharmacie des Moulins
- Pharmacie de Monte-Carlo
- Pharmacie Wehrel
- Pharmacie Ferry
- Pharmacie Bughin
- Pharmacie Rocher
- Pharmacie Plati
- Pharmacie Médecin
- Pharmacie Centrale
- Pharmacie San Carlo
YES the antigen test is covered by the compulsory health insurance plan.
