International Community Health Services - ICHS | Seattle

COVID-19 continues to circulate in our community. Health officials are bracing for an increase of COVID-19 cases this summer.

When to test

A) If you have respiratory virus symptoms that are not better explained by another cause (such as allergies), get tested for COVID-19 right away, even if you're vaccinated. If you test positive, most treatments for COVID-19 must start within 5 days of feeling sick.

B) Before gathering with a large group of people, especially those who are at risk of severe disease or may not be up to date on their COVID-⁠19 vaccines.

C) If you are exposed to someone who has COVID-19, seek testing within 2 days of exposure and no later than 5 days after exposure regardless of vaccination status. If symptoms develop, do not wait and get tested immediately, or consider retesting if you have already been tested.

Testing options

There are two main types of tests that can tell if you have COVID-19 or other respiratory viruses:

• Healthcare providers can test for COVID-19, flu, or other respiratory viruses.
• COVID-19 self-tests. These are also sometimes called antigen, at-home, or rapid tests. You can purchase self-tests at pharmacies, retail stores, or online. No insurance or prescription is required.

Remember that it is best practice for at home test kits to repeat your test in 24 to 48 hours if the first result is negative.

Some private health insurance companies may reimburse for at-home tests. Contact your insurance directly to verify your insurance coverage. Medicaid insurance covers at-home COVID-19 tests through September 2024.

Test Positive?

Please check out Washington State Department of Health's website for the most up to date info on how to keep yourself and your loved ones safe.