EAST BRIDGEWATER — The East Bridgewater Board of Health, in conjunction with the Board of Selectmen, announce availability of the Binax Rapid Antigen Test for at-home COVID-19 Testing.
The tests were purchased with federal CARES (Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security) Act money.
A total of two kits (four tests) will be available per household for as long as the supply lasts. Residents of East Bridgewater should bring proof of residency. Distribution details will be available soon on the website.
At-home COVID-19 rapid antigen tests are a fast, easy and convenient way to screen for COVID-19 and one of many risk-reducing measures that can be used to protect family and friends before heading to a holiday gathering.
These rapid antigen tests detect a significant viral load and if the result is positive, the test-taker must follow the guidelines for a positive case by isolating for at least 10 days and notifying all close contacts (those individuals who have been within 6 feet of you for more than 15 minutes in a 24-hour period). Receiving a vaccine, wearing masks indoors and social distancing are still the most effective tools in reducing the risks of spreading COVID-19.
For complete guidance from the Massachusetts Department of Public Health on what to do if you test positive, click here. For additional guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on self-testing, click here.
Residents should know that COVID-19 rapid antigen tests have limitations. They are not acceptable official test results for many scenarios that require proof of negative test results, including travel restrictions, medical clearance, returning to work or college, entry into sporting events, large-scale cultural events or any other event that requires testing results by an impartial party. The results are not entered into the Commonwealth’s Infectious disease tracking system (MAVEN).
Anyone with questions can contact East Bridgewater Health Agent Jeanmarie Joyce at 508-369-1216 or email JJoyce@eastbridgewaterma.gov.
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