Thinking about getting tested for COVID-19 can be stressful, especially if you aren’t feeling well. Here’s what you need to know about getting tested in Oregon: 

Who should get tested? 

• If you have symptoms of COVID-19 or if you were a close contact of someone with COVID-19, you should get tested regardless of vaccination status. Close contact means being within six feet of someone for 15 minutes or more over the course of a day, with or without a mask or face covering. 
• If you are getting tested because you had close contact with someone who has COVID-19, it’s best if you wait three to four days after you were together before taking a test. The test may not work if you get tested too soon. You should stay home and away from others while you wait. 

I’ve been fully vaccinated, should I still get tested?

• While breakthrough cases are uncommon, you should still get tested if you have symptoms of COVID-19.
• If you were a close contact of someone with COVID-19, you should also get tested.

Where can I get tested?

• If you have insurance, contact your health care provider. Most insurance providers cover the costs of COVID-19 testing and associated care. 
• If you’d like a free community testing event, you can find a list of upcoming events on the Do I Need a COVID-19 Test? website. You’ll need to register for an account and provide your contact information. This will let you schedule an appointment for your selected event and get your test results.  If there are no appointments available, please select another date or location. If you are not able to register in advance, you can still show up and register in-person.  
• Need help? You can also call 211 for help finding a testing site.  

If you’re at high risk for COVID-19 and test positive, there might be treatment options available for you. You can read more about those treatments here.

This article first appeared in the Aug. 3, 2021 issue of Oregon Coronavirus Update.