Free COVID-19 Saliva Tests for Minnesotans Now Available
Gov. Tim Walz and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan have made free at-home COVID-19 testing available to Minnesotans.
November 9, 2020
The Walz/Flanagan administration launched a mail–order saliva testing program available to all Minnesotans. The tests are available to people with or without symptoms. Results are expected within 48 hours.
The tests are free to those without health insurance. For people with health insurance plans that don’t cover the full cost of the test, the State will cover any remaining cost.
The at-home tests can be ordered online by filling out the test order form on the Minnesota Department of Health website.
This testing program was developed due to the increase in coronavirus case numbers, especially people who are unaware they have contracted the virus.
According to a Yale research study, saliva tests are just as accurate as a nasal swab. The saliva tests are more comfortable to take and use fewer medical supplies than a nasal swab.
Up to five tests can be ordered per household and must be ordered by someone 18-years of age or older.
Minnesota has testing sites located around the state for those who wish to be tested at a facility.