This test claims it can identify the omicron variant and is suitable for travel.

Nowadays, travelers have a variety of COVID-19 testing options, but obtaining a test for travel is more crucial than ever. With the United States reducing the testing window for entry from abroad and documented testing shortages coinciding with the fast-approaching holidays, having additional options is always beneficial.

However, one company is making its mark in the COVID-19 testing arena, boldly asserting that it can detect the new omicron variant. Here’s what you should know about Cue Health, a recent entrant in the COVID-19 testing market.

Essential information about Cue Health

Cue Health is a direct-to-consumer service that claims to provide results with 97.8% accuracy in just 20 minutes. It is FDA-authorized for at-home use and suitable for travel. Earlier this year, the CDC expanded the testing program for international travelers to the U.S., permitting airlines to accept at-home instant tests with remote supervision.

The company asserts that it can identify the omicron variant of the coronavirus.

Identified in November, this variant may spread more easily than others and features multiple spike protein mutations that could reduce its effectiveness against COVID-19 vaccines. Therefore, travelers looking to visit family or fly this holiday season might consider this option for added reassurance. According to the company, 99.2% of the known omicron sequences—used by scientists to track coronavirus mutations—matched perfectly with the primers in Cue's COVID-19 test.

"Our molecular test is supported by the necessary science and technology to identify new variants, including omicron, allowing individuals and healthcare providers to make more informed choices," said Ayub Khattak, Cue's CEO, in a statement.

What is the pricing?

Cue Health provides two options for travelers: the Cue+ Essential membership starting at $49.99 (with a pricier option available for $89.99 per month) or a one-time purchase of three or ten tests starting at $225.

The Cue+ Complete membership provides 24/7 in-app access to physicians, a pack of 10 or 20 COVID-19 tests designed for travel, a discounted "Cue Reader," a 20% discount on additional tests, and certified test results for travel purposes. Most importantly, the $89.99 membership includes proctored testing, which is required by the CDC for entry into the United States.

The $225 option may certainly surprise some, especially considering how affordable at-home testing has become. This package includes a Cue Health Monitoring System and either a three-pack or ten-pack (with the latter costing an astonishing $713) plus 5% off a ten-pack of tests. Another option featuring a "Cue Reader"—a portable device that automatically processes test outcomes—comes in at $474. The company states that its tests are good for nine months.

Which option is right for you?

The $49 or $89 options are clearly more advantageous compared to the pricier a-la-carte choices, which lack doctor access and travel-eligible test results. Even with the discounted Cue Reader (priced at $149), these options are a far better deal. If your COVID-19 testing is solely for health purposes, the a la carte selection might suffice, but there are more cost-effective alternatives, such as Binax's non-proctored test packs, which are significantly cheaper.

What sets this apart from other at-home COVID-19 tests?

Numerous COVID-19 at-home testing providers offer fast turnaround times, catering primarily to busy travelers who need a last-minute test before going on vacation or visiting family. Since these tests are mainly used by travelers returning to the U.S., having access to a test proctor and digital results is quite common, yet remains a valuable feature.

What’s intriguing—and sets this service apart—is the membership option, which isn’t offered by other providers like Abbott and Ellume. If you travel frequently, opting for the $49 membership might be a more advantageous choice than the pricier a-la-carte options.

What other at-home COVID-19 testing alternatives exist?

As previously mentioned, various companies offer at-home or mail-in COVID-19 tests. However, only CDC-approved proctored (supervised) tests are valid for flying into the U.S. So, be sure to select a proctored test before traveling to avoid any unexpected issues during your trip.

At-home testing options differ in price, turnaround time, and availability. Here are additional testing choices:

• Abbott BinaxNow COVID-19 Home Test: Available in two versions, one approved for travel and another that isn't. Price: Starts at $50 for the CDC-approved test, varying by distributor.
• Ellume COVID-19 Home Test: This test is CDC-approved for travel, but it's not available for online purchase. You must find it in a local store and pay separately for a virtual consultation. Be aware that some kits have been recalled by the FDA, so verify that the kit you’re purchasing is not one of the affected ones.

Key takeaways

Having more COVID-19 testing options is always beneficial. If Cue's assertion of being able to detect the omicron variant is accurate, it could significantly impact travelers during the holiday season and the New Year. For travel purposes, I recommend the Cue+ membership (or the slightly pricier Cue+ Complete) for added peace of mind.