There are two new additions to the COVID-19 toolkit, which aims to help people control the spread of the virus.
Stephanie Lambert, the newest addition to the Manitowoc County Health Department, told SeehaferNews.com that the first of these new tools is a phone app that will let you know if you have come in contact with anyone who tested positive.
Lambert noted that the app only works if you actively download and use it.“This app uses Bluetooth to anonymously speak to other phones, and alert you of potential exposure,” she explained. “It does not link to your identity or phone number, and it does not collect or store your location or personal information.”
Lambert said that the state has also created an at-home testing kit. She said, “This kit will be available to anyone who lives in Wisconsin, with or without symptoms, at no cost. To request the at-home collection kit, go to the state’s website. They may ask for your insurance information, but you should not be charged.”
The state does not expect you to do the test on your own. Lambert explained, “Once you receive your testing kit, you will be asked to make a virtual appointment via your phone or computer with a health care professional, who will walk you through the steps to collect your saliva sample,. Then you simply need to drop off your sample at UPS that same day, and your results will be emailed to you 2 to 3 days after it arrives at the lab.”
Lambert pointed out that this is not replacing all other testing options, it is simply another way you can get tested for the virus.
