People can now upload a positive antigen test result online.
As part of significant changes to COVID-19 close contact rules and isolation periods, the HSE's launched an online portal for uploading rapid test results.
Under the new system, people aged 4-39 no longer need to get a confirmatory PCR test if they have a positive antigen test result.
People who have symptoms of the virus or are a close contact of a confirmed case can order free antigen tests from the HSE, although store-bought test results can also be uploaded.
If they do test positive, they can visit the new online portal on the HSE website.
There, they can upload details of their positive antigen test result - including the date of the test and the reason why they took it.
Anyone using the new service can also include the phone numbers and details of any close contacts they've had recently.
The HSE says the service is anonymous, and the name or number of the positive case will not be shared with their close contacts.
However, people uploading their results will still need to give some information to complete the form - including a mobile number and a PPS number.
Once the test result is uploaded, people are advised to self-isolate in their room for seven days.
The HSE says: "You can stop self-isolating after 7 days have passed if you have no symptoms or your symptoms are mostly gone.
"It's OK to stop self-isolating even if you have a mild cough or changes to your sense of smell – these can last for weeks after the infection has gone.
"You do not need to do any more tests unless you develop symptoms again after finishing self-isolation."
However, people are being advised to continue limiting their close contacts outside their household and avoid crowded areas for another three days after ending their self-isolation.
It has been confirmed that people who use the new antigen test system will not qualify for a COVID-19 recovery cert.
That means a fully vaccinated person who has not been boosted but does upload a positive antigen test would need to wait for three months to get boosted in order to receive an updated EU Digital COVID cert.
Officials say this is in order to ensure misuse of the new system is limited, and anyone wishing to obtain a recovery cert will need to get a PCR test or professionally-administered antigen test.
The HSE's Damien McCallion says the new antigen testing portal is solely for public health purposes.
