Jefferson County Health Department distributing free COVID-19 antigen test kits

Antigen tests are particularly useful if one is:

• Symptomatic with illness consistent with COVID-19 — test immediately

• Exposed to COVID-19, day 5 after exposure is best and retest in 1-2 days if negative

• Spending time with someone who is immunocompromised or at high risk for severe illness

• Gathering in a group setting or traveling together

Read the complete manufacturer’s instructions for use before using the test.

To use an at-home test, one will need to collect a nasal specimen and then test that specimen. If the manufacturer’s instructions are not followed, the test result may be incorrect. One is to wash hands before and after collecting a nasal specimen for a test.

Videos of manufacturer instructions for your specific self-tests are available at https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/testing/self-testing-videos.html

Find more information about self-testing and what to do if a test result is positive, go to https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/testing/self-testing.html

One can also order free antigen test kits from the federal government using the link https://www.covid.gov/tests.

COVID-19 antigen test kits can be picked up from Jefferson County Health Department on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 1 p.m. and 2 to 4:30 p.m. Test kits will be available while supplies last with a limit of three boxes per household; each box contains two antigen tests. Contact the health department via email with any questions, or if a test result is positive so that the department can provide appropriate resources.

JCHD will be administering vaccines and tests for COVID-19 at the health department Tuesdays and Thursdays by appointment only. Appointments can be made by calling the health department at 920-674-7275. To find a COVID-19 vaccination site, visit www.vaccines.gov, text your zip code to 438829, or call 211. One can also call 844-684-1064, 800-232-0233, or contact JCHD via email or phone.