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COVID-19 Testing

Young woman holding up a negative COVID19 test

With lower rates of COVID-19, high vaccination rates, and demand for rapid antigen tests (RAT) trending downwards across Ontario, the province of Ontario has announced discontinuing the Rapid Antigen Test Public Distribution Program.

If you are eligible for molecular testing you are encouraged to get tested using a molecular test. Those who are not eligible for molecular testing may use rapid antigen testing.

 

NOTICE: The Haldimand-Norfolk Health unit does NOT have a supply of COVID-19 Rapid Antigen Tests (RAT). Some pharmacies may still have a free supply or RAT tests available for purchase. Those at higher risk of serious COVID-19 infection may be eligible for PCR testing and, if COVID-19 positive, can discuss anti-viral treatment with their doctor, nurse practitioner or participating pharmacist. To learn more about eligibility and participating pharmacies, visit COVID-19 testing locations (ontario.ca)

 

 

Who can access these RAT kits

People with symptoms of COVID-19, especially those at high risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19, looking to access COVID-19 antiviral treatment.

High risk individuals include:

  • People who identify as First Nations, Inuit, and Métis
  • Temporary foreign workers
  • People in congregate living settings, like long-term care homes and retirement homes
  • Adults 60 years of age and older
  • Immunocompromised adults 18 years of age and older
  • Adults 18 – 59 years old with:
    • One or more underlying medical conditions (such as diabetes, heart or lung disease – full list of conditions) or;
  • Inadequate immunity against COVID-19 from:
      • Not receiving a full primary series of the COVID-19 vaccine
      • Having received a full primary series but no COVID-19 vaccine or COVID-19 infection within the past six (6) months
  • It is the recommendation of Haldimand-Norfolk Health Unit that those individuals considered to be at high risk of severe outcomes from COVID-19 have access to COVID-19 tests at home, and speak with their health care provider in advance about treatment options and develop a treatment plan to avoid obstacles if they become sick
  • People without symptoms of COVID-19 for screening purposes

Rapid testing does not replace preventive measures such as symptom screening, staying home when sick, practicing healthy hand hygiene, and/or masking.

 

If you have COVID-19 symptoms OR a positive COVID-19 test (PCR, rapid molecular or rapid antigen test), please isolate until symptoms have been improving for 24 hours (or 48 hours if gastrointestinal symptoms) and no fever is present.

Additionally, for a total of 10 days after the date of specimen collection or symptom onset (whichever is earlier/applicable) follow these additional precautions.

 

If you test positive, however, and do not have COVID-19 symptoms, you do not need to self-isolate. If symptoms develop, self-isolate immediately and follow the above guidelines.

If your symptoms become unmanageable, seek medical attention.

You can also take this self-assessment to find out what to do if you are feeling sick or have been in contact with a positive case.

How to complete rapid antigen testing

 

 

 

 

Last updated 10/09/2024