At-home COVID testing kit options available locally

Two forms of at-home COVID testing kits are now available locally. The Test Iowa self-administered kits, which take the place of the Test-Iowa drive up testing sites, are available for pick-up at Veterans Memorial Hospital in home or may be sent home at no cost.

Each test kit includes step-by-step instructions including how to activate the test kit, collect the test sample, return the sample the State Hygienic Lab and when to expect the results.  Kits are available at the main entrance of the hospital, from the receptionist desk, from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. weekends and holidays.

Another option of at-home testing kits are available for purchase from local pharmacies. These kits are purchased at the store and taken home and give immediate results, which is beneficial for those wanting to know if they are safe to attend public and family events.

According to the Iowa Department of Public Health, the best way to protect oneself against COVID-19 is to get vaccinated. The risk of severe illness and death from COVID-19 far outweighs any benefits of natural immunity. COVID-19 can have serious, life threatening complications and there is no way to know how it will affect anyone.

The COVID-19 vaccine, which is readily available locally, creates an antibody (immune system) response without having to experience sickness.

Allamakee County Public Health does have a good supply of vaccine and is highly encouraging everyone to receive it. Vaccine clinics are readily available every Friday afternoon for both prime and boost doses for Moderna. The hospital also has Pfizer vaccine on-hand at this time as well and can vaccinate those ages 12 and older. These vaccinationclinics are held at the main entrance to Veterans Memorial Hospital. Call 563-568-5660 to schedule an appointment.

Both Hartig Drug and Nightingale Pharmacy in Waukon have vaccine available for ages 12 and older, and a Parental/ Guardian consent is required. Call to schedule an appointment.

Continue to watch the Veterans Memorial Hospital website at www.veteransmemorialhospital.com and the Veterans Memorial Hospital Facebook page for upcoming clinic details.