If you feel sick or have COVID-19 symptoms, it’s important to get tested right away, even if you’re vaccinated. If you test positive, most treatments for COVID-19 must start within five days of feeling sick. Now is a good time to stock up on free at-home rapid tests, while supplies are still available and covered by insurance. Where to request tests:
- Federal Government: COVID.gov/tests – Free at-home COVID-19 tests while supplies last
- Washington State Department of Health www.sayyescovidhometest.org. Enter your home zip code to see if supplies are still available in your area. The program ends on May 11, 2023.
- Insurance providers are required—through May 11, 2023—to cover the cost of eight at-home tests per covered member per month
- Kaiser Permanente members can order free COVID-19 home tests through the member portal
- KingCare and KingCare Select members (Regence/CVS Health) can get free tests at a CVS Pharmacy or by mail (shipping fees apply). Information at Reimbursement for At Home COVID Test – CVS Pharmacy
Different brands of tests have different expiration dates. Do not use expired tests unless the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) has extended the date printed on the box. Go to this FDA website and look for the name of your test. You’ll need the lot number printed on the box.
Finally, keep in mind that at-home rapid tests may miss anearly infection. If you have COVID‑19 symptoms and test negative, repeat your test in 12 to 24 hours. Learn more about COVID-19 testing, including what to do if you test positive, at COVID-19 testing – King County.
Follow PUBLIC HEALTH INSIDER – Official insights from Public Health – Seattle & King County staff for more COVID-19 news.
Attention managers and supervisors: please print this pdf to post in your work spaces.
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