Rapid COVID-19 Tests Widely Available For Will Co. Organizations

WILL COUNTY, IL — As the state moves into the coronavirus vaccine era, the Will County Health Department is reminding residents that widespread testing will be important all the way to the end. With that in mind, it is encouraging more organizations to participate in the BINAXNow program.

These rapid COVID-19 tests, available through local health departments, are able to take some of the testing burden off all the entities already offering the PCR testing.

"These tests may be a very useful diagnostic tool for testing persons in the early stages on infection," the Illinois Department of Public Health states.

The BINAXNow tests are recommended for anyone experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, and who may have been exposed to someone with COVID-19. The final result is more time saved, and more people being conveniently tested, WCHD said in a release.

Any organization, such as a school district, private school, health clinic, congregate living or long term care facility, workplace, or other organizations with any level of a licensed healthcare professional on staff can participate in this program. These tests are provided at no cost to the organization, nor to the patient.

By contacting WCHD, and signing up with the state for proper reporting of test results, the organization can obtain these tests, and have them administered by licensed health care professional. The test is done by swabbing both nostrils to the point of first resistance, and results are available within 15 minutes. The healthcare professional administering the test needs PPE that includes a fit-tested N-95 respirator, a face shield, and gown and gloves.