According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, coronavirus disease 2019, or “COVID-19,” is a respiratory illness caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, or “SARS-CoV-2.” This illness spreads through respiratory droplets produced when an infected individual sneezes or coughs. Symptoms include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Severe complications include pneumonia, multi-organ failure, and in some cases, death. There are currently no specific treatments or vaccines for COVID-19. For more information, visit cdc.gov/COVID19.

Editor’s Note: The global pandemic caused by the outbreak of COVID-19 is a rapidly changing situation. Health organizations are releasing new information daily. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this article at the time of publication. We will continue to update the information provided as necessary.

How to get tested for COVID-19

The procedures for COVID-19 testing vary by state, county, and in some cases, the testing site or healthcare provider. The coronavirus testing directory below lists resources by state. Many states have created interactive maps or lists where residents can easily find information about their nearest testing site. Individuals should read the guidelines for their chosen test site carefully, and contact the testing provider if they have any questions about criteria or procedures.

Most testing sites require an appointment and may also require a referral from a healthcare provider. Additionally, some sites will only test individuals who exhibit symptoms of COVID-19, while others will test asymptomatic individuals as well. Individuals should also be mindful of costs that may be associated with COVID-19 testing. Some sites are providing testing free of charge; others accept health insurance or payment out-of-pocket.

Please note that testing sites may close, or change their hours or testing criteria without notice. All information contained in the following directory is current as of the date of publication.

State COVID-19 Testing Directory

When to get tested for COVID-19

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the most common COVID-19 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

Individuals who display any of these symptoms should contact their healthcare provider or seek testing as soon as possible. You can also determine if you need to seek testing using the CDC’s Self-Checker tool.

If you are experiencing emergency warning signs of COVID-19, which include trouble breathing; persistent chest pressure or pain; new confusion; inability to wake or stay awake, and/or bluish lips or face, you should seek emergency medical care immediately.

Depending on where you are, you may be able to get tested for COVID-19 even if you are not displaying any symptoms. The CDC recommends that asymptomatic individuals who have been exposed to someone with a known or suspected case of COVID-19 get tested themselves, although testing criteria and availability is ultimately determined by the specific testing provider.

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