COVID Test Kits: What You Need To Know To Get Yours Today
Get your COVID-19 test kit and help prevent the spread of the virus. Testing kits are widely available in many communities, making testing simple and convenient.
Types of COVID-19 test kits
PCR tests
PCR tests, or polymerase chain reaction tests, are the most common type of COVID-19 test. They work by detecting the virus's genetic material in samples from the nose or throat. These tests are very accurate, but results can take several days to come back.
Antigen tests
Antigen tests detect proteins of the virus in a sample of your nose or throat. These tests are faster than PCR tests and can provide results in 15 to 30 minutes, but they are not the most accurate. They are frequently used in screening programs for asymptomatic people.
Self-test kit
Self-test kits allow individuals to collect samples at home via nasal swabs or saliva. These tests are generally less accurate than PCR or antigen tests, but offer convenience and ease of use. Therefore, they are often used for regular testing at work or school.
How to get a COVID-19 test kit
-Sponsored projects
Federal initiative—U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is making COVID-19 testing available to U.S. households. As part of the federal initiative, families can order a limited number of home testing kits. These test kits are shipped directly to your home, ensuring easy and convenient testing.
HHS has partnered with multiple providers to provide accurate and reliable testing, allowing individuals to take control of their health and monitor COVID-19 symptoms.
State and local programs - California Department of Health, New York State Department of Health
State and local authorities are also offering COVID-19 testing to residents. The California Department of Public Health and the New York State Department of Health are examples of state programs that provide home testing kits.
These initiatives are designed to increase access to testing and promote public health. Residents can request a test kit online and have it mailed to their home. Covid-19 test results are usually available within a few days.
Leading private provider
Pixels from LabCorp
Pixel by LabCorp is a private provider offering COVID-19 testing through partnerships with federal, state and local programs. They offer easy-to-use home testing kits that can be ordered online. Test results are available within 1-2 days after the laboratory receives the sample.
Wynn will
Everlywell is another leading private provider of COVID-19 testing. They offer a simple and convenient home testing process. In partnership with the program, EverlyWell provides testing to eligible individuals. Test results are available online within days of the laboratory receiving the sample.
Security status
Vault Health partners with sponsored programs to provide COVID-19 testing. You can order a saliva test kit online and have it delivered straight to your door.
Vault Health provides easy-to-follow sample collection instructions and video guides. Test results are available within 24-48 hours after the sample is received by the laboratory.
Vitagini
Vitagene provides COVID-19 testing through partnerships with programs. They offer home testing kits that can be ordered online.
The testing process is simple and convenient. Once the laboratory receives the sample, results are typically available within 48 to 72 hours.
How to order your COVID-19 test from top providers
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Visit the official website of your chosen provider: Visit the official website of a program or private provider that offers COVID-19 testing.
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Complete the required information: Provide the required personal information including name, address and eligibility criteria to request a test kit.
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Confirm your order: Complete the checkout process and your COVID-19 test kit will be delivered to your door. Follow the instructions to perform the test and return the sample for analysis.
