Broader COVID-19 testing and tracing now encouraged

Public Health - Seattle & King County recommends testing right away for anyone with symptoms consistent with COVID-19 or who has come in close contact with someone who has COVID-19. The availability of testing kits is increasing. Tests are generally administered through a primary healthcare provider but there are options for those who don't have healthcare access. 

It's important to self-isolate while waiting for results even if no symptoms are showing, because COVID-19 can spread before symptoms appear. Those who test positive may receive a call from Public Health. The caller will ensure you have care and will ask about how you may been exposed to the virus, and who may have had close contact with you while you were contagious, so they can get tested and self-isolate as well. 

Additional Resources 

Public Health–Seattle & King County: COVID-19 testing 

Public Health–Seattle & King County: The Downtown Seattle Public Health Center: Free testing for low to no-income individuals who don't have access to health care 

Public Health–Seattle & King County: Public Health's "Symptoms, testing and care" resources 

Washington State Department of Health: Testing for COVID-19 

Washington State Department of Health: What to do if you have confirmed or suspected COVID-19 fact sheet