When should you get a COVID-19 test? Where are they available in the Lehigh Valley? Here’s what to know

Demand for COVID-19 tests continues to grow across the Lehigh Valley, triggering long lines at testing sites and shortages of at-home tests.

The high demand, coupled with changing guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, has created frustration, confusion and plenty of questions.

Under guidance released Dec. 27, isolation restrictions for people infected with COVID-19 were shortened from 10 days to five days if they are no longer feeling symptoms or running a fever, according to an Associated Press report. After that period, they are asked to spend the following five days wearing a mask when around others.

However, the newest guidelines do not specify a negative antigen test as a requirement for leaving isolation — something Dr. Anthony Fauci said the CDC is now considering.

Here is what to know about who should be tested for COVID-19, where to find tests and more.

Who should seek a COVID-19 test?

A person should get tested for COVID-19 if they’re experiencing symptoms, including fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, loss of taste or smell, after a known or suspected exposure, for screening in schools or workplaces and before travel.

How long after exposure should someone get tested?

The CDC recommends getting tested 5 days after close contact with a person with suspected or confirmed COVID-19, regardless or vaccination status.

Where are tests currently available?

To get tested through St. Luke’s University Health Network, a screening is required.

•Allentown Testing Site (side of building), 1941 Hamilton Street in Allentown, is open from 3 p.m to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, with drive-up and walk-up testing available.

•Brodheadsville Health Center, 111 PA-715 in Brodheadsville, is open from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays.

•St. Luke’s Anderson Campus (behind the Specialty Pavilion), 1872 St. Luke’s Boulevard in Bethlehem Township , is open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays.

•St. Luke’s West End Medical Center, 501 Cetronia Road in Allentown is open 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays.

•St. Luke’s Miner’s Hometown Health Center34 South Railroad Street in Tamaqua, is open from 3 p.m to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Lehigh Valley Health Network has divided their testing for those with symptoms to get tested and those without symptoms. Both require prescriptions.

Public testing sites are also available, but there are none located in Lehigh nor Northampton counties. No appointment is necessary, but a photo ID is required and tests are administered on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Testing kits for at-home use are available at CVS, Walgreens, Amazon and Walmart. The FDA has released a list of tests authorized by the agency.

What types of tests are available?

There are two types of tests available, a laboratory test and a rapid test.

A lab test, for example, a PCR test, uses a sample from a nasal swab or saliva. Results are reliable for people with and without symptoms, and are usually confirmed within one to three days.

A rapid test, for example, an antigen test, uses a nasal swab. Results may be less reliable for people without symptoms, but are much quicker than a lab test and take 15 to 30 minutes.

Morning Call reporter Molly Bilinski can be reached at mbilinski@mcall.com .

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