COVID tests are becoming increasingly difficult to obtain, even for healthcare facilities. We want to use our resources carefully and in a way that helps our community the most. To optimize the use of the tests available, consider following the guidelines below:
You may not need to test if –
- You don’t have any symptoms, regardless of your exposure history;
- You had COVID but symptoms are cleared, and your isolation period is ended;
- You have completed quarantine after exposure and remain without symptoms; or
- You have mild symptoms, regardless of exposure – however, in this case DO isolate as if you have COVID.
You should test if –
- You have more severe symptoms typical of COVID (cough, wheezing, shortness of breath, headache, body aches, fever, loss of taste or smell); or - You have mild symptoms but you live with someone at risk of having a severe case if they contracted COVID (e.g. an immunocompromised person).
If you do need to be tested, you can contact the BaylorScott&White or the Mid-Coast clinics to schedule testing Monday through Friday. EMS is doing free, drive-up COVID testing on Saturdays from noon to 4:00 p.m. (if not out on call) at the EMS barn. Please knock on the door or ring bell at the Commerce Street entrance and then return to your car.
You can order free home kits from the U.S. government by going to the website <COVIDTests.gov>. Each household can order four tests. As described above, use these tests only when it’s important to make decisions about your health and the health of your family and friends.