And so accessible, too!
Regular testing to check if COVID-19 has infected any of our loved ones is a must, and we know all too well how important it is to do this on a constant basis. Watsons now sells FDA-certified COVID-19 antigen test kits with price points ranging from P399 to P500, and is available in all stores nationwide starting October 25.
To make sure that these kits are used with care, they will be administered by medical professionals such as doctors, nurses, and medical technologists. Watsons also requires medical prescription for these professionals to administer. The required specifications set by the Health Technology Assessment Council (HTAC) are at 80 percent sensitivity and 97 percent specificity, and these test kits deliver at least 95 percent sensitivity and 99.2 percent specificity.
"As more people head out to work, school and gatherings, Watsons knows that antigen test kits are important in helping reduce transmission," says Maita A. Santiago, Watsons Philippines customer director.
This rollout will also help Filipinos work better, easing their minds off worries of possible COVID-19 contraction sans the expensive fees. These affordable antigen test kits uses saliva as the indicator for the presence of the virus, with results available in 30 minutes or less.
"Watsons is taking a proactive role as the Philippines continues to fight this pandemic. Tools such as antigen testing kits help provide important information and serve as a guide so the public will know what steps to take," adds Santiago.
- For more information and counseling, ask your Watsons pharmacist or download the Watsons app.