State to distribute 1 million free home COVID tests in Oahu

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The state has launched a new program to distribute 1 million free in-home COVID tests to households in Oahu in eligible zip codes.

The idea: Give people the tools to test more frequently to stop the spread of the virus.

The tests were made available to the state health department as part of a federal pilot program.

To order a test kit, go to COVIDTestHonolulu.org. They are available until October 18 while stocks last.

Residents of the following postal codes are eligible:

96701, 96706, 96707, 96712, 96717, 96730, 96731, 96734, 96744, 96762, 96782, 96786, 96789, 96791, 96792, 96795, 96797, 96813, 96814, 96815, 96816, 96817, 96818, 96819, 96817, 96818, 96819, 96786 96822, 96825, 96826, 96844, 96850, 96853, 96854, 96857, 96858, 96859, 96860, 96861, 96863.

Officials said that through the program, 125,000 Oahu residents in eligible zip codes will get eight rapid antigen tests to test twice a week for four weeks.

Ideal candidates include those who are not vaccinated or who are at high risk of exposure to COVID.

Program participants will get rapid antigen tests that require a quick swab inside each nostril. The results are ready in about 10 minutes.

Those who test positive on self-administered tests should follow home isolation guidelines and contact their health care provider to request follow-up testing.

“Free, rapid and self-administered tests will give community members an additional way to help reduce the spread of COVID-19,” said Director of Health Dr Elizabeth Char. “This program offers participating communities another tool to protect themselves and their families. “

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