Decision extends expiration dates for rapid antigen tests

Did you know you may be able to use expired antigen tests? DOH has approved the use of all rapid antigen tests after they expire, so long as the built-in quality controls are intact. Using the quality control procedures will ensure that the test is still good to use and can produce accurate results (to learn more, search for your test’s instructions for use on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website). Read more in the DOH approval letter.

The FDA has issued amended Emergency Use Authorizations for several tests to extend expiration dating based on additional quality data. iHealth, a common take-home test, is one of those tests and now has an approved extended shelf-life of nine months rather than six months. In combination with the DOH approval of expired rapid antigen tests, this means you can still use iHealth past its new expiration date if quality controls indicate that the test may be considered reliable.

This authorized extension will help us all effectively use supplies distributed to communities across Washington state. Using supplies that are closest to expiration first can help maintain a reliable inventory, so community members have access to tests when needed most.