Jefferson County epidemiologist Samroz Jakvani has announced that the health department is providing free COVID-19 antigen test kits to community members.
“Antigen tests are often referred to as ‘home tests’ or ‘rapid tests,’ and provide reasonably reliable and quick results under certain conditions,” Jakvani wrote in a May 13 press release.
Tests can be picked up from the health department Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2-4:30 p.m. Kits will be available while supplies last. There will be a limit of three boxes per household. Each box has two tests. Questions may be directed to COVID19@jeffersoncountywi.gov.
According to the release, antigen tests are useful for those who have COVID-19 symptoms, and in those cases people should test immediately. If people have been exposed to COVID-19, tests are also useful and testing five days after exposure is best. Those who test negative should retest 1-2 days later. Also, if people gather or travel in a group setting or spend time with someone immunocompromised, or at high risk for severe illness, should get antigen tests.
Jakvani wrote that people should read the manufacturer’s directions completely before testing. At-home tests included collecting a nasal specimen and testing it.
“If you do not follow the manufacturer’s instructions, your test result may be incorrect,” Jakvani wrote. “Wash your hands before and after you collect a nasal specimen for your test.”
