Free COVID-19 saliva testing began on May 20th at the UIC Health Sciences Campus in Rockford located at 1601 Parkview Ave. The testing provided by SHIELD Illinois is open to all members of the public. Appointments are encouraged and can be scheduled on Tuesdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The covidSHIELD test is a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test that quickly detects the virus that causes COVID-19 including in people who aren’t showing symptoms. Negative PCR tests may be required for some travel and, under the region’s Phase 4 Bridge, to be allowed to attend certain events with limited capacity.
Testing will take place in tents in the South Parking Lot of the Campus and involves participants drooling into a tube to provide a saliva sample which is less invasive than more common COVID-19 testing using a nasal swab. Results are typically available within 24 hours.
If you plan on getting a test, here are some things you should know:
- Individuals being tested should not eat, drink, use tobacco, brush their teeth, or use mouthwash 60 minutes prior to submitting a sample
- There is no minimum age requirement to participate in SHIELD testing
- All visitors must wear a mask as they enter and leave the testing site
Community members should pre-register by visiting the SHIELD testing portal HERE. Click, “sign up for an account,” and enter the agency code (df5brbrj). Individuals who are bringing minors to test should follow instructions to create a family account. Community members will receive test results directly to their online SHIELD Illinois portal.
More information on COVID-19 saliva testing can be found HERE.