Covid-19

Testing

Overview

UPDATE: Beginning November 20, every U.S. household can again place an order to receive four more free COVID-19 rapid tests delivered directly to their home. Free At-Home Covid Tests

UPDATE: Starting September 25, 2023, U.S. Will Resume Offering Free At-Home Covid Tests

UPDATE: As of March 28, 2023, HVHD will no longer be administering Rapid PCR COVID-19 tests. 

You play an important role in stopping the spread of COVID-19 within our community. If you are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, especially if you have been around someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, you should get tested.

Resources

FAQ

Q: When should I test?

A: Key times to get tested:

If you have symptoms, test immediately.

  • If you are only going to take a single test, a PCR test will provide a more reliable negative test result.
  • If you use an antigen test, a positive result is reliable, but a negative test is not always accurate.
  • If your antigen test is negative, take another antigen test after 48 hours or take a PCR test as soon as you can.

If you do not have symptoms but have been exposed to COVID-19, wait at least 5 full days after your exposure before taking a test.

  • If you are only going to take a single test, a PCR test will provide a more reliable negative test result.
  • If you use an antigen test, a positive result is reliable, but a negative test is not always accurate.
  • If your antigen test is negative, take another antigen test after 48 hours or take a PCR test as soon as you can.
  • If your second antigen test is also negative, wait another 48 hours and test a third time.

Q: Should I conduct a rapid at-home test or should I get a PCR test?

A: You can use an at-home COVID-19 test if:

  • You have COVID-19 symptoms
  • Have been in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 48 hours
  • Have access to an FDA-approved at-home test kit. 

You should get a PCR COVID-19 test if:

  • Have COVID-19 symptoms
  • Have been in contact with someone who tested positive for COVID-19 in the past 48 hours
  • You are unable to acquire an FDA-approved at-home test kit. 
  • The at-home test was negative, it has been 24 hours since the negative test, and the person continues to have symptoms. 

Updated: September 19, 2023

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