Testing for COVID-19 is a vital tool to prevent spreading the virus to other people. To improve access to testing, Springfield-Greene County Health and the Springfield-Greene County Library District will begin distributing at-home testing kits at all Greene County Library locations today, June 6.
Each household is allotted four testing kits, which include two antigen tests each and a guide for what to do if you test positive for COVID-19. The kits are free to the public and a total of 2,500 will be distributed.
At-home antigen tests offer more accurate results at times of peak viral load, which occurs two days before and three days after the onset of COVID-19 symptoms. They are good for surveillance in the event of an exposure or if someone starts to show symptoms. At-home antigen test results are usually available in 15-20 minutes.
Community members are encouraged to report positive at-home test results using the Health Department COVID-19 Home Testing Survey. Doing so can help provide the community with an accurate snapshot of COVID-19 prevalence. For more COVID-19 testing information visit COVIDTesting417.com.
These kits are made possible through a partnership with the Library and a Springfield-Greene County Health initiative to combat health disparities in the community as they relate to COVID-19 and beyond. This initiative includes increasing access to the COVID-19 vaccine. The Health Department and community partners host free clinics each week around Greene County. Community members can find a clinic near them at vaccine417.com or by calling the COVID-19 Call Center at 417-874-1211.
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Media may contact the Health Department PIO Team by call or text at 417-380-2556 or email at [email protected].
Springfield-Greene County Health Department
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