At-home coronavirus test now available at select Washington pharmacies

A take-home coronavirus test is now available for purchase at Safeway Albertsons pharmacies for $139.99.

The kit, made by New Jersey-based genetics testing company Phosphorus, detects the active virus in the saliva of individuals who are experiencing symptoms of coronavirus.

Rather than swabbing up the nose, users need to spit into a provided vial, break a seal to mix in a liquid, shake it, then mail the vial off using a pre-paid FedEx label to the company’s labs in New Jersey.

“The saliva test is easy to use and comfortable. Patients are never more than a phone call away from our pharmacy’s guidance and care. And the at-home model can help ease the burden on a stressed health care system,” said Dan Salemi, GVP Albertsons Cos. Pharmacy, in a press release.

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Results are emailed or texted to the user within 72 hours.

This express take-home kit is not available to just anyone, however, as you must first fill out an online questionnaire to determine your eligibility.

Customers can currently pick up a test at Safeway Albertsons or order one online for delivery — those with current coronavirus symptoms are being asked to stay at home and have a friend or family member collect the kit.

The test has not been FDA cleared or approved; however, it has been authorized by FDA under an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for use by the authorized laboratory.