Seneca County health officials to distribute free at-home COVID tests

Tiffin, Ohio — Seneca County General Health District and Seneca County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) are combining resources and efforts to make it easier for Seneca County residents to get free Abbott BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Home Tests.

Rather than residents needing to call or visit multiple locations, the free rapid at-home tests will be distributed Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. through 4 p.m., at the Seneca County EMA office, 126 Hopewell Avenue, Tiffin, as long as supplies last.

Free rapid tests can also be obtained through public libraries, especially during evening and weekend hours, although their supplies are very limited too.

“We are trying to stretch our limited supply of free tests as far as we possibly can,” notes Health Commissioner Anne Goon. “Our top priority is to get tests into the hands of residents with COVID-19 symptoms who need to get tested now. This will allow them to immediately isolate and reduce the spread of COVID-19 to others.”

A COVID-19 antigen test identifies if an individual is currently infected, and they are most accurate when used by symptomatic persons.

Two versions of the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Antigen Home Test may be available, depending on what is shipped to the Health District by the Ohio Department of Health.

• A “proctored” version for those needing formal proof of their test results for travel or their employer): This test is done at home under the direct visual supervision of a telehealth provider (so a laptop, tablet, or smart phone is required). There is 1 test in a box.
• An “unproctored” version for those not needing formal proof of their test results: This test is also done at home without the assistance of a telehealth provider. There are 2 tests per box. The test kits contain instructions on how to perform the test, and videos can also be found online.

If you have questions, contact the Seneca County General Health District at (419) 447-3691.