Positive at-home COVID test results can be reported through state hotline
Aug 25, 2021, 5:09 AM | Updated: 6:19 am
A medical Laboratory scientist tests vials of samples for coronavirus at the University of Washington Medicine virology lab in Seattle. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images)
(Photo by John Moore/Getty Images)
The demand for a quick COVID test has only increased as cases rise across Washington state, driven primarily by the spread of the delta variant.
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As an easier option, people are turning to over-the-counter, at-home tests when they have symptoms that could be COVID-19, or for other reasons like travel requirements or possible exposure. While at-home tests can be convenient, the Washington State Department of Health says it’s important to make sure people are using the right kind of test, are taking steps to isolate and get care if they do test positive, and to have that positive test reported to the state in order to determine how and where the virus is spreading.
“Now, it’s easier than ever for people who buy home tests to report their own results,” the DOH said in a written release. “Thanks to a partnership with Washington 211, it is now possible to report a positive test result from an at-home test through the state’s COVID-19 hotline. Hotline personnel will determine next steps based on zip code so results can be recorded and reported, and can guide callers through any questions they may have.”
The state hotline is 1-800-525-0127, and is available Monday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Tuesday to Sunday 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Language assistance is available.
“Testing is a critical tool to understand the current surge and help slow the spread of disease,” said Dr. Scott Lindquist, acting state health officer. “It is important for everyone who has symptoms or a known exposure to COVID-19 to get a test, regardless of vaccination status.”
A list of COVID-19 testing locations can be found through the state DOH website here. Seattle testing locations can be found here.
Which test should you take?
As far as the best type of test to take, the DOH explains that the main ones are molecular tests, including PCR tests, and antigen tests.
Molecular tests look for genetic material from the virus that causes COVID-19, the DOH says. The results can take a little longer, but they are the most accurate tests available.
Antigen tests look for certain proteins on the virus surface. The results come in faster, but they are generally less accurate than molecular tests in most circumstances. Over-the-counter tests are generally antigen tests.
Additionally, the state DOH notes that antigen tests are most accurate for people with symptoms, but they can still produce false negative or false positive results.
“With those tests, if you are symptomatic and you get a negative result, it’s advisable to get a confirming molecular test to be sure,” the DOH says. “Also, if you are asymptomatic and get a positive antigen result, you should again get a confirming molecular test.”
Find a location to get vaccinated here.
If you test do positive for COVID-19, follow the guidelines on this handout. If you have economic or other challenges, like getting groceries, help is available through Care Connect Washington.
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