Los Angeles Coronavirus Update: LA County Pilot Program Enables Home COVID Testing

LOS ANGELES (CNS) – Los Angeles County has officially launched a COVID-19 home testing pilot program aimed at making testing easier for some residents.

The program, which was previewed earlier this week by health officials, will run until Jan.15 in an effort to improve access to testing during the holiday season.

“As the spike in cases and hospitalizations continues, LA County is trying innovative ways to meet the demand for testing and stem the community spread of the virus,” said Dr Clemens Hong, who oversees COVID testing -19 for the county health services department, said in a statement. We are doing everything we can to make sure the tests are accessible to all. This allows us to reach even more people – and they do not have to risk exposing others by leaving their homes. This is an important step in fighting the virus in LA County. ”

WATCH | Understanding the basics of the COVID-19 test

Home testing will be made available to people who show symptoms of COVID-19, those who have had contact or suspected contact with a patient with coronavirus, as well as elderly or disabled people who believe they have been exposed. but who are unable to do so. visit a test site.

The pilot program will use “Picture COVID-19” tests developed by Fulgent Genetics and approved by the Food and Drug Administration. Kits will be sent to people who register online and samples can be returned by FedEx. Results will be emailed within two days, depending on the county.

Residents can see if they are eligible for the program on the county’s COVID testing website.

Coronavirus test: where to get tested for COVID-19 in Southern California

WATCH | What is COVID-19 doing on your body and how is it spread so easily?

The video in the media player above is from a previous report.