How to Get Tested for COVID-19
www.hopkinsmedicine.org/
By Tay Chang
During this time of the pandemic, a lot of people are looking into testing to check their wellbeing to know whether or not they are or have been infected with the virus. The rise and spread of the number infected with the coronavirus has more people becoming concerned for their health. It is important to note that there are many facilities and doctors that are willing to help others and to protect them from viruses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) mentions, “To accomplish our mission, CDC conducts critical science and provides health information that protects our nation against expensive and dangerous health threats, and responds when these arise.”
1. Know what kind of tests are there
There are two kinds of tests for COVID-19. One is a Viral test that will tell if you have a current infection. The second is the Antibody test, which tells you if you had the infection previously.
2. Who can I talk to?
For most people who have symptoms of COVID-19 and want to get tested, it is highly recommended to call their health care provider first. Then, you can follow the links below and go to the NYS Department of Health or Putnam County Department of Health to look for any information on testing.
https://covid19screening.health.ny.gov/COVID-19 Hotline: 1-888-364-3065
Local Health Department: Putnam County Department of Health
3. Where can I tested?
COVID-19 testing locations depend on your state and local area. The Putnam County Health Department lists locations where you can receive a Viral test. Most require an appointment, and in some cases a discussion with a healthcare provider needs to take place in order for you to receive a prescription for the test.
On Tuesday, May 5, the Putnam County Health Department is holding a drive through testing clinic. This is not an antibody test, and since supplies are limited, a survey must be filled out to receive an appointment. For more information regarding this event, visit https://putnamcountyny.com/health/coronavirus/#toggle-id-1
4. What should I do after the test?
To get your results, check with the people that performed your test (healthcare provider or your health department).
If you test positive for the virus:
If you feel or have:
- Difficulty Breathing
-Chest Pain/pressure
-Bluish lips or face
Call your health care provider for further advice.
If you test negative for the virus:
Make sure to:
Last Updated: 5/7/2020, 12:01 am
During this time of the pandemic, a lot of people are looking into testing to check their wellbeing to know whether or not they are or have been infected with the virus. The rise and spread of the number infected with the coronavirus has more people becoming concerned for their health. It is important to note that there are many facilities and doctors that are willing to help others and to protect them from viruses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) mentions, “To accomplish our mission, CDC conducts critical science and provides health information that protects our nation against expensive and dangerous health threats, and responds when these arise.”
1. Know what kind of tests are there
There are two kinds of tests for COVID-19. One is a Viral test that will tell if you have a current infection. The second is the Antibody test, which tells you if you had the infection previously.
2. Who can I talk to?
For most people who have symptoms of COVID-19 and want to get tested, it is highly recommended to call their health care provider first. Then, you can follow the links below and go to the NYS Department of Health or Putnam County Department of Health to look for any information on testing.
https://covid19screening.health.ny.gov/COVID-19 Hotline: 1-888-364-3065
Local Health Department: Putnam County Department of Health
3. Where can I tested?
COVID-19 testing locations depend on your state and local area. The Putnam County Health Department lists locations where you can receive a Viral test. Most require an appointment, and in some cases a discussion with a healthcare provider needs to take place in order for you to receive a prescription for the test.
On Tuesday, May 5, the Putnam County Health Department is holding a drive through testing clinic. This is not an antibody test, and since supplies are limited, a survey must be filled out to receive an appointment. For more information regarding this event, visit https://putnamcountyny.com/health/coronavirus/#toggle-id-1
4. What should I do after the test?
To get your results, check with the people that performed your test (healthcare provider or your health department).
If you test positive for the virus:
- Please, isolate yourself from others to prevent further spreading.
If you feel or have:
- Difficulty Breathing
-Chest Pain/pressure
-Bluish lips or face
Call your health care provider for further advice.
If you test negative for the virus:
- Even though you are not positive, it is still important to be concerned about how to prevent yourself and others from being infected.
Make sure to:
- Avoid close contact
- Wash your hands often
- Cover your mouth and nose with a face mask
- Cover your coughs and sneezes with your elbow or nearby tissues
- Disinfect your home or the areas that are mostly touched
Last Updated: 5/7/2020, 12:01 am
