Grand Island resident Laura Matthews recently had an unsettling experience when she discovered that her at-home COVID-19 test had expired. Frustrated and concerned, Matthews contacted 7 Problem Solvers’ Michael Schwartz for assistance. To her surprise, Schwartz uncovered new information about the shelf life of these tests that could benefit countless others.
Upon investigation, it was revealed that some at-home COVID-19 tests have been granted an extended expiration date by the FDA. Matthews was initially informed that the shelf life of her test had been extended by six months. However, it turns out that the extension lasts for a whole year.
To find out if your at-home COVID-19 test has an extended expiration date, follow these simple steps:
1. Visit the FDA’s website (URL here), specifically the page dedicated to COVID-19 tests.
2. Scroll down until you find the specific test that you possess.
3. Check if the test is labeled with “Extended Expiration Date” in the second column.
4. If labeled as such, click on the hyperlink provided to access a table of Lot Numbers.
5. Locate the Lot Number on your test box and match it with the corresponding expiration date on the table.
It is important to note that the FDA provides a useful clarification regarding lot numbers with an asterisk (*). If your test has a lot number followed by additional letters, the expiration dates listed are also applicable. For example, if your test has the lot number COVSA1001, the same expiration dates apply to lot numbers COVSA1001-A or COVSA1001-HF.
These new guidelines can provide peace of mind for individuals who have been unsure about using their at-home COVID-19 tests after the original expiration date. By following these instructions, you can determine whether your test is still valid and reliable.
For any further questions or concerns regarding consumer issues, feel free to contact Michael Schwartz at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use my at-home COVID-19 test after the original expiration date?
A: It depends. Some at-home COVID-19 tests have been granted an extended expiration date by the FDA. To check if your test qualifies for an extension, follow the steps outlined in the article.
Q: How do I know if my test has an extended expiration date?
A: On the FDA’s website, look for the label “Extended Expiration Date” next to your specific test in the second column. If it is present, your test has an extended expiration date.
Q: What should I do if my test does not have an extended expiration date?
A: If your test does not have an extended expiration date, it is recommended not to use it beyond the original expiration date printed on the test.
Q: Are there any exceptions to the lot numbers listed in the table?
A: Yes, if your test has a lot number followed by additional letters, the expiration dates listed in the table also apply to those variations. Refer to the example provided in the article for clarification.
Q: Who can I contact for assistance with consumer issues?
A: If you have any consumer concerns or require further assistance, you can get in touch with Michael Schwartz at [email protected].