PCR Testing To Be Offered By Appointment At New Fairfax Testing Center

FAIRFAX, VA — Fairfax County's large-scale COVID-19 testing site will open Saturday as demand has ramped up in recent weeks.

The Community Testing Center at the Fairfax County Government is one of nine from the Virginia Department of Health announced by Gov. Ralph Northam. Starting Jan. 15, the testing center will operate by appointment only Saturdays through Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) testing will be provided.

The location is parking lot B of the Fairfax County Government Center on the southwest corner of the government center complex. Appointments can be found at vase.vdh.virginia.gov/testingappointment.

PCR tests are considered a reliable way to detect active COVID-19 infection, even in asymptomatic people. The Fairfax County Health Department recommends PCR testing for people with COVID-19 symptoms or those instructed to test after an exposure. PCR testing is not recommended for return to school or work after COVID-19 infection, as tests may remain positive even after a person isn't infectious. Test results will be available within a few days by text or email message.

Appointments will become available 24 hours in advance. Residents are encouraged to check back frequently as more appointments are added regularly.

Lines may be expected at the testing center, so visitors are encouraged to dress warmly. Visitors will need to park and walk to the testing tent.

Anyone needing assistance with scheduling testing can contact the COVID-19 Call Center at 703-324-7404. Other testing options can be found by searching your ZIP code in the VDH testing locator.