MASON CITY – CG Public Health is now offering free, at-home, saliva COVID-19 testing kits. These non-invasive, self-contained testing kits contain a shipping box, and a return label for users to mail their test kits directly to the Iowa State Hygienic Lab. They are 100% confidential and can be used to easily obtain an accurate test result via email on a computer or smartphone.
“Of course, the best way to avoid having to test for COVID-19 is through vaccination against the virus that causes this disease. We have three safe and effective vaccines available in the United States,” states Karen Crimmings, disease prevention manager at CG Public Health. “We also know that not everyone is eligible for the vaccine and/or may have other reasons they need to be tested. These kits will be extremely helpful for that.”
Arrangements for picking up a test kit can be made by calling CG Public Health at 641-421-9300. You must call and make arrangements before picking up a test kit. If you are currently experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or believe you have been exposed to COVID-19, you must let us know before picking up your test kit. Symptoms include fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, diarrhea.
Once the test kit is received by the Iowa State Hygienic Lab, test results are usually available within 24 hours. The individual who submitted the test will receive an email notification when the test kit has been received and another email notification when their test results are available. For additional information call 641-421-9300.
