Let's protect eachother against respiratory infections.

Covid-19 self-test

How to take a Covid-19 self-test?

  • If you have coronavirus symptoms, do NOT call your GP, but complete the online questionnaire. If it turns out that you are best tested, you will receive a test code which you can use this to make an appointment at a testing center or lab, or at a pharmacist. On this list you will find the pharmacists where you can be tested.
  • If you run a higher risk of serious COVID-19 (eg pregnancy, diabetes, heart-renal, liver or lung diseases, cancer , etc.), you should consult a doctor.
  • Self-testing is pointless if you have had COVID within the last 3 months (confirmed with a positive PCR test).
  • Always take the preventive measures: keep a minimum distance of 1.5m - remember hand hygiene - follow the rules on close contacts - always wear a face mask - plan your social contacts outdoors as much as possible. More information can be found at info-coronavirus.be
  • Instruction video will be available later on this page.
  • Always keep a self-testing kit at room temperature and in a dark place, but never in the refrigerator or freezer.
  • Some of the steps below may vary depending on the brand or type of test you purchase. Always read the information leaflet that comes with the test.

Prepare the test

  1. Take the strip out of the packaging and place it on a clean, flat surface. Once it is out of the package, you have 30 minutes to complete the test.

  2. Prepare the capsule with the liquid. Check the test kit leaflet for instructions on how to do this.

  3. Blow your nose and wash or disinfect your hands.

Do the test

  1. Take the package with the swab and open it carefully.

  2. Put the soft end of the swab 2 to 4 cm up your nose. Make 10 circular movements with it. This may feel uncomfortable.

  3. Place the soft end of the swab in the capsule and rotate it in the liquid for 15 seconds. Leave the swab in the liquid for 1 to 2 minutes.

  4. Pinching the bottom of the capsule against the swab, remove the swab from the capsule and dispose of it.

  5. Press the cap tightly onto the capsule.

  6. Turn the capsule over and let the liquid fall onto the test strip. Read the test kit leaflet to find out how many drops should go onto the strip.

  7. Wait 15 to 30 minutes to read your result. Consult your test kit leaflet for the exact waiting time.

How to read the results

Positive result: You can see a line next to the letter C and a line next to the letter T.

Negative result: You can see a line next to the letter C, and nothing next to the letter T.

In all other cases, your test is void. If no lines appear, or only a line next to the letter T, this means your test has not worked and is void. In this case, do a second test with a new kit.

Is your self-test positive? That means that you probably have coronavirus.

You should request an activation code for a PCR test through the contact centre on 02 214 19 19, since a positive result in a self-test must be confirmed by a PCR test. If a self-test is positive, you must immediately self-isolate. If the positive result is confirmed at a test centre, contact tracing will be started. You must stay indoors for at least 7 days.

Is your self-test negative? That means that you are probably not contagious at present.

You do not need to self-isolate. Be aware that a self-test is only ever a snapshot and is also not 100% reliable. If you do develop symptoms, you should always consult your doctor. Continue to follow the applicable rules carefully.

More information