TARRANT COUNTY, TX
Public Health
COVID-19 Testing in Tarrant County
COVID-19 testing kits are available at our Immunizations clinics, while supplies last.
Help Finding A Testing Site
Search for free COVID-19 testing locations that are convenient for you and schedule an appointment.
If you need assistance, call the Tarrant County Public Health Call Center at 817-248-6299.
Different Types of Coronavirus Tests
Molecular Test
Also known as:
Diagnostic test, viral test, molecular test, nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT, RT-PCR test, LAMP test.
How the sample is taken:
Nasal or throat swab (most tests) Saliva (a few tests).
How long it takes to get results:
Same day (some locations) or up to a week
Is another test needed?
This test is typically highly accurate and usually does not need to be repeated.
What it shows:
Diagnoses active coronavirus infection.
What it can't do:
Show if you ever had COVID-19 or were infected with the coronavirus in the past.
Antigen Test
Also known as:
Rapid diagnostic test (Some molecular tests are also rapid tests.)
How the sample is taken:
Nasal or throat swab.
How long it takes to get results:
One hour or less
Is another test needed?
Positive results are usually highly accurate but negative results may need to be confirmed with a molecular test.
What it shows:
Diagnoses active coronavirus infection.
What it can't do:
Definitely rule out active coronavirus infection. Antigen tests are more likely to miss an active coronavirus infection compared to molecular tests. Your health care provider may order a molecular test if your antigen test shows a negative result but you have symptoms of COVID-19.
Antibody Test
Also known as:
Serological test, serology, blood test, serology test.
How the sample is taken:
Finger stick or blood draw.
How long it takes to get results:
Same day (many locations) or 1-3 days
Is another test needed?
Sometimes a second antibody test is needed for accurate results.
What it shows:
Shows if you've been infected by coronavirus in the past.
What it can't do:
Diagnose active coronavirus infection at the time of the test, or show what you do not have COVID-19.
More details can be found on this U.S. Food and Drug Administration webpage.
Until you obtain results, follow these recommendations:
Remember that most people who become infected with COVID-19 experience symptoms similar to the common cold or flu and are able to manage their symptoms at home using the same medications you would use to treat a cold or the flu.
In addition, you should isolate, at home, and follow the prevention steps below to limit the potential spread of illness:
- Restrict activities outside your home, unless you need medical care
- Stay home
- Avoid using public transportation, ridesharing, or taxis
- Stay in a specific room away from others inside your home, as much as possible.
- Wear a mask when around other people, including healthcare workers.
- If possible, use a separate bathroom
- Restrict contact with pets while you are sick
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol. Several store-bought pocket hand sanitizers are more than 60 percent alcohol. Always check the labels.
- Avoid sharing dishes, utensils, cups, towels and bedding
- Frequently clean “high-touch” areas, such as counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, toilets, phones, keyboards and tablets
- Although there have not been any reported cases of transmission from people to animals, limiting contact is recommended.
If you feel you need to see your healthcare provider or have an existing appointment, first call their office and tell them you have, or may have COVID-19. They will determine how to proceed with your care. Many medical offices are offering telehealth visits and may advise this type of visit, if appropriate.
At this time, you have been instructed to home isolate because your current symptoms are considered mild. In the event your symptoms worsen, seek medical attention. Worsening of symptoms* may include:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest
- New confusion or inability to arouse
- Bluish lips or face
*This list is not all-inclusive. Please consult your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning.
If your healthcare provider recommends you go to the clinic or hospital for further evaluation, put on a facemask before you enter the facility. These steps will help keep other people in the office or waiting room from getting infected or exposed.