At-home COVID tests? They’re out there, but may be hard to find

By WVUA 23 News Reporter A’Leeyah Ponder

With the omicron variant spreading at a rapid pace, at-home COVID-19 testing kits are in high demand. So high in demand, in fact, that it can be a lot harder getting one than you’d think.

<a href=”https://www.facebook.com/northportpharmacygifts/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>Northport Pharmacy and Gift Gallery</a> Pharmacist <span data-ogsb=”rgb(255, 255, 255)”>Rob Colburn can attest how difficult it’s been to get tests into the hands of his customers.</span>

“Being a small-business person like this, it’s been difficult to get,” Colburn said. “Right now, we do have access. We’ve got some ordered and hopefully on the way in, so people can come by and pick up a test, then test at home.”

He said he anticipates at-home COVID-19 test to be available at Northport Pharmacy beginning this week.

At-home COVID-19 tests provide results in minutes and are useful for anyone who wants to ensure they’re COVID-free before attending an event with others. Test kits vary in price, but are on average between $20 and $30.

Colburn said he recommends the COVID-19 vaccination and booster for anyone who’s eligible, and suggests that if you’re experiencing COVID-like symptoms you get a test from a health care provider or take an at-home test.

<span data-ogsc=”rgb(0, 0, 0)”>The <a href=”https://www.cdc.gov/” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention</a> recommends the following regarding holiday gatherings:<br></span>

<ul><li style=”list-style-type: none;”><ul><li>Outdoors is safer than indoors</li><li>Avoid crowded, poorly ventilated spaces</li><li>If you are sick or have symptoms, don’t host or attend a gathering</li><li>Consider using a self-test before joining indoor gatherings with others who are not in your household</li></ul></li></ul>